among the first

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "among the first" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone or something is part of a select group that is early or pioneering in a particular context or action. Example: "She was among the first to graduate from the new program, setting a precedent for future students."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

But Cory was among the first.

The New York Times - Arts

"Fine people, among the first settlers".

The New Yorker

They were among the first tenants.

The New York Times

Among the first were French Voisins.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"She was among the first".

The New York Times - Magazine

Camby is among the first.

The New York Times - Sports

Among the first endorsements he sought?

The New York Times

No high-reactors among the first 18.

The New York Times - Magazine

Minaya was among the first to call.

The New York Times - Sports

Gilligan was among the first witnesses.

The New Yorker

James Watson may be among the first.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "among the first" to highlight pioneering efforts or early adoption of new ideas or technologies, enhancing the impact of your statement. For example: "They were among the first to recognize the potential of the internet".

Common error

Ensure that the phrase "among the first" is followed by a clear descriptor. Avoid leaving the reader wondering "first what?" Be specific about what the subject was first in doing or achieving.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "among the first" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or pronoun. It indicates that the subject was part of an initial group to do or experience something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "among the first" is a versatile and grammatically sound way to highlight pioneering efforts or early adoption. Ludwig AI confirms it's correct and common usage. It is frequently used in news, science, and encyclopedia contexts. When using this phrase, ensure you clearly specify what the subject was first in doing to avoid ambiguity. Consider related phrases like "one of the earliest" or "among the pioneers" to add nuance to your writing. Remember to specify what the subject was first in doing to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

one of the earliest

Focuses specifically on the temporal aspect of being early.

among the initial

A more succinct way of expressing belonging to the starting set.

among the pioneers

Highlights innovativeness or ground breaking aspect of the action.

part of the initial group

Emphasizes membership within a starting cohort.

one of the pioneers

Emphasizes the innovative and groundbreaking aspect more strongly.

early adopters

Specifically refers to those who embrace something new quickly.

at the forefront

Highlights a leading position in a particular field or endeavor.

leading the way

Highlights the act of guiding or showing others what to do.

in the vanguard

Suggests a forward-looking and progressive role.

setting the trend

Implies establishing a new pattern or fashion for others to follow.

FAQs

How can I use "among the first" in a sentence?

You can use "among the first" to indicate that someone or something was part of an initial group to do or achieve something. For example: "She was among the first to volunteer for the project."

What phrases are similar to "among the first"?

Similar phrases include "one of the earliest", "part of the initial group", or "among the pioneers" depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "among the first" and "one of the first"?

While very similar, "among the first" implies a slightly larger group than "one of the first", which might suggest a more exclusive or selective initial group.

When should I use "among the first" instead of "one of the first"?

Use "among the first" when you want to emphasize that the subject was part of a larger initial wave or group, whereas "one of the first" is appropriate when referring to a more select or individual set of pioneers.