a first slice of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a first slice of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when introducing an initial portion or example of something, often in a figurative sense, such as a discussion or analysis. Example: "In this report, we will provide a first slice of the data collected from our recent survey."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

This week's decision to go ahead, albeit belatedly, with the sale of a first slice of EDF is but one example.

The Economist

He scraped the knife against a hone, crossing them above his head like a swashbuckler, and then, asking for silence, cleanly cut a first slice of white meat and placed it ceremoniously on my plate.

The New Yorker

In the framework of the preparation of the next generation of launchers to be developed in Europe, the European Space Agency ESAA) has contracted NGL Prime and its industrial team to conduct a first slice of launch system and stage design activities and programmatic analyses for two types of launchers:.

Acta Astronautica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Top with sliced Gruyère and a second slice of bread.

The New York Times - Magazine

Repeat with a second slice of sourdough.

The New York Times - Magazine

Stack one layer on top of another and finish by topping with a third slice of sourdough.

The New York Times - Magazine

5. To serve, place a slice of beef on a plate, top with some onions, another slice of beef, onions and a third slice of beef.

The New York Times - Food

When I went up to the counter to order a second slice of bread, the girl didn't bat an eye.

The New Yorker

"It's my perfect lunch," she says, as she has a third slice of toast (the very good prosciutto and pesto toast).

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The treasury had earlier announced it would sell a fourth slice, of 12.5%, from its current 51.2% stake.Rupert Murdoch said he plans to expand in Germany, Europe's biggest media market, but not in pay-TV.

The Economist

Both series indicate the extent to which the countervailing sentiment, the fat-acceptance movement, begun in the 1960s, has gained traction in the mainstream as a rebuttal to political and social forces seeking to tax Mountain Dew and convince you that every time you have a second slice of pizza the devil grows an extra pair of horns.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a first slice of" to introduce an early or introductory example when discussing something broader. For instance, "This study offers a first slice of understanding into the complexities of the issue."

Common error

Avoid relying on "a first slice of" too often in your writing. While acceptable, overuse can make your prose sound repetitive. Vary your language by using alternatives like "an initial piece of" or "a glimpse of" for a more engaging style.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a first slice of" functions as a noun phrase, acting as a determiner followed by a noun modified by a prepositional phrase. It refers to an initial portion or sample of something. Ludwig examples show its application across varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a first slice of" is a grammatically sound and understandable way to introduce an initial part or example of something. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's most commonly found in news and media, as well as science-related content. Though not overly frequent, its usage is clear and consistent. When writing, consider varying your language to avoid overuse. Alternatives like "an initial piece of" or "a glimpse of" can provide a more engaging style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an initial piece of

Replaces "slice" with "piece", maintaining the sense of a portion but with a slightly more general connotation.

a preliminary part of

Uses "preliminary part" to emphasize the introductory nature of the segment.

an opening section of

Substitutes "slice" with "section", focusing on the sequential aspect of the initial part.

a sample of

Conveys the idea of experiencing or examining a small portion to understand the whole.

a glimpse of

Implies a brief or partial view, rather than a physical segment.

the beginning of

Highlights the start or commencement of something, rather than a portion.

an early phase of

Emphasizes the temporal aspect of the initial stage.

a taste of

Figuratively represents the initial experience as a sample to be savored.

the first installment of

Suggests a series or sequence, with the current instance being the initial part.

a foretaste of

Implies a preview or indication of what is to come, emphasizing anticipation.

FAQs

What does "a first slice of" mean?

The phrase "a first slice of" typically refers to an initial portion, sample, or introduction to something larger or more complex. It suggests that what's being presented is just the beginning or a small part of the whole.

How can I use "a first slice of" in a sentence?

You can use "a first slice of" to introduce an early or introductory example when discussing something broader. For instance: "This research provides "a first slice of" the data we've collected on consumer behavior."

What are some alternatives to "a first slice of"?

Alternatives to "a first slice of" include "an initial piece of", "a preliminary part of", or "a glimpse of", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a first slice of" in formal writing?

Yes, "a first slice of" can be appropriate in formal writing, particularly when introducing a preliminary analysis or overview. However, consider the overall tone and audience to ensure it aligns with the expected level of formality. You may prefer alternatives like "an initial assessment of" for highly formal contexts.