always moves first

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "always moves first" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing strategy, behavior, or actions where one party takes the initiative before others. Example: "In negotiations, the party that always moves first often sets the tone for the discussion."

✓ Grammatically correct

Chess

General Usage

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

White always moves first.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

He's always moving: first to New York, then to California, now Monaco.

Independent

That is: one person always moves on first.

Vice

"It's always hard moving first time.

BBC

Black moves first.

Encyclopedia Britannica

White moves first, then players alternate moves.

Wikipedia

That's just what the numbers for light say — the same numbers that say it always moves a certain distance every second.

The New Yorker

That's just what the numbers for light say the same numbers that say it always moves a certain distance every second.

The New Yorker

Applying the discussed concepts to the blocking structure, it is recognized that the highly hydrophobic blocking structure (since it is comprised of alpha helices) always moves towards lower electric field (second term on the right of (8)).

BioMed Research International

Male social equals called each other by their surnames, sometimes (but certainly not always) moving on to first names when the moment warranted it.

The Economist

Life always moves on.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "always moves first" in a strategic context, ensure it's clear who or what is being discussed. For instance, "In chess, white always moves first." clarifies the subject.

Common error

Avoid using "always moves first" if the action only occurs sometimes or in specific circumstances. Using "frequently takes the initiative" is more accurate for actions that aren't truly constant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "always moves first" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, indicating the consistent or habitual nature of initiating an action. Ludwig shows the phrase being used both literally, such as in the context of chess, and figuratively, referring to taking initiative.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "always moves first" is grammatically correct and, according to Ludwig AI, usable in written English, though not very common. Its primary function is to describe a consistent precedence or habit of initiating actions. Ludwig's examples show it being used in contexts ranging from chess to general strategic situations. The register is generally neutral, making it suitable for various writing styles. If aiming for alternatives, phrases like "takes the initiative consistently" or "is always the first to act" can provide similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is always the first to act

Highlights the precedence in taking action.

invariably acts first

Highlights the lack of variation in acting before others.

takes the initiative consistently

Emphasizes the act of initiating and doing so on every occasion.

consistently initiates action

Stresses the regular starting of activities.

habitually makes the first move

Focuses on the habitual nature of initiating actions.

starts first without fail

Conveys the reliability and certainty of initiating.

customarily goes first

Highlights a typical behavior of leading or starting.

precedes others in action

Focuses on going before in any undertaking.

is the initial actor every time

Underscores that the subject always begins the action.

in every instance leads off

Stresses initiating or leading in each scenario.

FAQs

How can I use "always moves first" in a sentence?

You can use "always moves first" to describe someone or something that consistently initiates action, such as, "In this game, the player with the highest score always moves first."

What does it mean when something "always moves first"?

It means that in any given situation or sequence, that entity initiates or acts before any other. It implies a consistent precedence or leadership role.

Which is more appropriate: "always moves first" or "takes the initiative"?

"Always moves first" implies a consistent and predictable pattern of initiation. "Takes the initiative" is more general and may refer to a single instance of initiating something. For a consistent pattern, "is always the first to act" might work.

What are some situations where one "always moves first"?

Examples include chess (where white always moves first), business negotiations (where one party might consistently initiate contact), or social interactions (where one person consistently initiates conversations).