at first instance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at first instance" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
The phrase is typically used to describe a situation that happened first, or as a first occurrence, and usually implies that a subsequent situation or occurrence will follow. For example, you might say "At first instance, I thought the plan was a good idea, but on further consideration, I had reservations."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

At first instance the court must be satisfied that the evidence has been lawfully obtained.

The Guardian

The decision at first instance was the first time that a national newspaper had successfully established a Reynolds defence.

The Guardian

Perhaps the highest-profile case in which he presided at first instance was one of his last.

The Guardian

At first instance, the TiO2 NPs were prepared by using sol gel synthesis, affording to have average diameter of 77 ± 21 μm.

International Journal of Biological Macromolecules

Consequently, that court ordered Mr Sandberg to pay fines higher than those imposed at first instance, but slightly reduced the compensation awarded to C More Entertainment.

Harvard University

Unusually he had extensive experience of sitting both at first instance and on second-tier appeals in both the social security and tax jurisdictions.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

Signs accompanying dehydration are dry tongue, burning throat and dark-brown urine, at first instances.

WikiHow

"In some states," the report notes, "the difference is explained by the relatively recent feminisation of the judiciary, whose effects are currently more noticeable [in the lower courts] than at second instance and in the supreme court.

The Guardian

This article was amended on 21 March 2018 to correct the spelling of De Ninni's surname, at second instance, and to clarify the expression in English of information she had provided in Italian.

The Guardian - Tech

"The family has been basically locked out of seeing the young lad, at the first instance when he was at the hospital," he told ABC radio.

The Guardian

Wikimedia lost at the first instance in the federal court, especially on standing grounds.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at first instance" to clearly indicate the initial stage of a process or the first occurrence of an event, setting the context for subsequent developments or actions. For example, 'At first instance, the proposal seemed viable, but further analysis revealed significant flaws.'

Common error

Avoid using "at first instance" when you mean "at first sight" or "immediately". "At first instance" is more appropriate when describing a process or legal context, whereas "at first sight" refers to an immediate impression.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at first instance" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the initial stage or phase of an action or process. It provides temporal context, specifying when something initially occurs. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Academia

4%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at first instance" is a prepositional phrase that serves as an adverbial modifier, indicating the initial stage of a process or event. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used, particularly in scientific, news, and formal business contexts. While alternatives like "initially" or "at the outset" exist, "at first instance" carries a specific nuance of legal or procedural initiation. Ensure its use aligns with describing the starting point of a sequence rather than a mere immediate impression. By understanding its function and register, writers can effectively employ "at first instance" to enhance clarity and precision in their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initially

Focuses on the beginning stage or phase.

at the outset

Emphasizes the very beginning or start of something.

in the first place

Highlights the original reason or situation.

to begin with

Used to introduce the first point or action in a series.

at the start

Focuses on the commencing point or moment.

at the inception

Emphasizes the initial creation or establishment.

at the preliminary stage

Highlights an early phase before full development.

at the primary level

Focuses on the most basic or fundamental stage.

as a first step

Indicates an action taken as the initial measure.

in the early stages

Highlights the period when something is just beginning to develop.

FAQs

How can I use "at first instance" in a sentence?

Use "at first instance" to describe an initial step or observation in a process. For example, "At first instance, the data suggested a correlation, but further analysis proved otherwise".

What's a good substitute for "at first instance"?

Consider alternatives like "initially", "to begin with", or "at the outset" depending on the specific context.

Is "at first instance" formal or informal?

"At first instance" is generally considered a more formal phrase suitable for professional, academic, or legal contexts. More informal settings might favor simpler alternatives.

When is it appropriate to use "at first instance" versus "at first sight"?

"At first instance" is used to describe the initial stage of a process or legal action. "At first sight" refers to an immediate impression upon seeing something for the first time.