as a first question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a first question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when introducing the initial inquiry in a discussion or interview context. Example: "As a first question, could you explain your motivation for applying to this position?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Your blogger made a point of asking each voter, as a first question, what concern or ambition had led them to the polls.

The Economist

So, as a first question: is the best is yet to come?

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

It is all Cameron's fault for not putting more devolution as a third question on the paper.

The Economist

As a second question, what about the guys (terrestrial or otherwise) who built the sim we're living in.

Huffington Post

The general perception of America's waning appetite for engagement in the Middle East, underlined by Mr Obama's reluctance to support the moderate Syrian opposition in any useful way has been damaging as well.A second question is how much of a threat a resurgent al-Qaeda now poses to the West.

The Economist

In one classroom, students pepper Lizette Roman, their English-as-a- second-language teacher, with questions and complaints that their English class is scheduled at the same time as their workfare requirements.

The New York Times

As Barkley began to ask a third question, Popovich interrupted, "That's a third question, isn't it?

Huffington Post

"I've done it plenty of times," the governor responded, before cutting off Mandavi minutes later as he tried to ask a second question.

Huffington Post

As with almost every other interview of a Spanish player, in an interview by AS Xabi Alonso's first question is: "Do you have any plans prepared to deal with Cristiano Ronaldo?

Independent

As a result, the first question one must ask when querying some piece of economic reasoning offered as justification for policy is this: is it real?

Huffington Post

As a freelancer, my first question when I set foot in any new city is, "Where can I get good coffee and Wi-Fi?" Much to my surprise, Brazilians usually suggest Starbucks.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as a first question" when you want to clearly signal the beginning of a series of inquiries, particularly in a structured interview or formal discussion.

Common error

Avoid using "as a first question" in casual conversations. Simpler alternatives like "to start" or "first off" are often more appropriate in less formal contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a first question" functions as an adverbial phrase introducing the initial inquiry in a conversation or interview. It signals that what follows is the first of potentially multiple questions. Ludwig's examples confirm this usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as a first question" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase to introduce an initial inquiry, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. While relatively rare, it's most appropriate in neutral to professional contexts, such as interviews and structured discussions. Consider simpler alternatives like "to begin with" or "initially" for informal settings. Remember that the phrase signals the beginning of a series of questions, providing a clear and organized structure to the conversation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to begin with

This alternative is less specific to questions and works more generally as an introduction.

initially

This alternative is shorter and more direct, focusing on the temporal aspect of the first action.

for starters

This alternative is more informal and conversational.

at the outset

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the starting point of a discussion.

firstly

This alternative is a simple sequential marker, less conversational than "as a first question".

as an opening gambit

This alternative implies a strategic or persuasive intent in the initial question.

by way of introduction

This alternative sets the question as a means of introducing a topic.

to kick things off

This alternative is highly informal and conversational.

my first point is

This alternative shifts the focus from a question to a statement or point.

as a preliminary matter

This alternative is quite formal and suitable for legal or official contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "as a first question" in a sentence?

You can use "as a first question" to introduce the initial inquiry in a conversation, interview, or formal discussion. For example, "As a first question, could you describe your experience in this field?"

What can I say instead of "as a first question"?

Alternatives include "to begin with", "initially", or "for starters", depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it better to use "as a first question" or "firstly"?

"As a first question" is used to introduce an initial inquiry, while "firstly" is a sequential marker used to introduce the first point in a series. The best choice depends on whether you are asking a question or making a statement.

What's the difference between "as a first question" and "my first question is"?

"As a first question" is an introductory phrase, while "my first question is" is a more direct statement introducing the question. Both are acceptable, but "as a first question" can sound slightly more formal or tentative.