among the initial

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "among the initial" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a selection or group that is part of a larger set, particularly in contexts like rankings, lists, or categories. Example: "Among the initial candidates, she stood out due to her unique qualifications."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Google initially made it known that a paedophile, politician and doctor were among the initial removal requests, but has since acknowledged there are some more compelling claims.

The Guardian - Tech

Google initially made it known that a paedophile, politician and doctor were among the initial removal requests, but has since acknowledged more diverse and compelling claims.

The Guardian - Tech

Among the initial scholars were al-Khwārizmī and al-Kindī.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Among the initial bidders were most large publishing companies, including Random House and Penguin USA.

The New York Times

To be fair, the first, most unsatisfactory test car was among the initial 700 built.

The New York Times

Among the initial perplexities is the title of the work, which suggests a context nowhere apparent in the head itself.

The New York Times - Arts

This program is among the initial offerings of the new Oxygen network, which made its debut earlier this month.

The New York Times - Magazine

Wired, Vanity Fair, Vogue, InStyle, GQ, Elle, Esquire and Better Homes and Gardens are among the initial crop.

The Guardian - Tech

He was the only scholar who studies religion who was among the initial signers.

The New York Times

Among the initial advertisers on Aspire, which is being promoted with the theme "Our past.

The New York Times

Several companies specializing in how-to videos are among the initial partners, including iAmplify, a producer of instructional workout videos.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "among the initial", ensure the context clearly establishes the larger group from which the selection is being made. For example, "Among the initial applicants, only a few met all the requirements."

Common error

Avoid using "among the initial" without specifying the total group size or category, as this can leave the reader wondering about the scope of the selection. Instead of saying "Among the initial problems...", specify "Among the initial problems identified in the report...".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "among the initial" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or noun phrase. It specifies that the noun being modified is part of a selection or group existing at the beginning of a process, list, or set. Ludwig examples confirm this function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

34%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "among the initial" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to specify elements within a starting group or selection. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically correct and finds frequent use across various domains, particularly in News & Media and Science. When employing this phrase, clarity is key: ensure the context establishes the broader group from which the initial selection is drawn. Alternatives such as "among the first" or "in the beginning group" can be used depending on the nuance you wish to convey. While usable in formal contexts, the phrase maintains a generally neutral register, making it suitable for a wide array of writing scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

among the first

Replaces "initial" with "first", emphasizing the temporal precedence.

among the original

Substitutes "initial" with "original", highlighting the origin or source.

initially included

Changes the structure to a passive verb phrase.

in the preliminary phase

More formal and specific to phases or stages.

in the beginning group

Uses a more descriptive noun phrase instead of the adjective "initial".

in the early stages

Emphasizes the phase of development or progression.

at the start

Focuses on the commencement or beginning phase.

at the outset

Similar to "at the start", but carries a slightly more formal tone.

to begin with

Highlights the starting point of a sequence or process.

in the forefront

Emphasizes being at the front or in a leading position from the beginning.

FAQs

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

Use "among the initial" to specify a selection from a starting group. For example, "Among the initial investors, only a few understood the risks involved."

What are some alternatives to "among the initial"?

You can use phrases like "among the first", "in the beginning group", or "at the start" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "among the initial" and "among the first"?

While similar, "among the initial" emphasizes being part of the starting set, whereas "among the first" highlights temporal priority. The choice depends on whether you want to stress the starting point or the order of events.

When is it appropriate to use "among the initial" in formal writing?

"Among the initial" is suitable for formal writing when you need to precisely identify a selection from a starting point in a process, study, or list. Ensure the larger group is clearly defined for context.