at first time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase “at first time” is correct and usable in written English.
It is commonly used when something was done for the first time. For example: “I felt nervous at first time, but I was soon comfortable in the new environment.”.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

At first, Time was a kind of assembly-line news, manufactured in a Taylorized shop.

The New Yorker

When the local council gave planning permission at first time of asking two of the big operators called for a judicial review, but were unsuccessful.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Due to short network life, the data received at first time is important for trust-building.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

At first time point images, significant uptake was seen in the urinary system.

EJNMMI Research

The silver nanobowls were synthesized at first time using T. viride.

Journal of Nanostructure in Chemistry

Packaged with Bluetooth headphones, it's aimed squarely at first time buyers as a portable Media Center.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

It is aimed at first-time drivers or owners – although anyone with a licence can apply.

The Guardian - Tech

Called Valimar, the 165-unit project is being aimed at first-time homebuyers.

The New York Times

About 40% of Persimmon's 2014 sales exploited the government's help-to-buy scheme aimed at first-time buyers.

The Guardian - Business

To deal with the slowdown, he said, KB Home has cut costs, focused on building more affordable homes aimed at first-time buyers and sold off nonperforming assets.

The New York Times

Aimed at first-time savers and investors, the free guide lists a series of do's and don'ts of buying an Isa.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at first time", ensure the context clearly indicates that an action or event occurred for the very first time. Consider if a more common alternative, such as "for the first time", might be clearer and more widely accepted.

Common error

Avoid using "at first time" in contexts where the idea of 'time' is already implied. For example, instead of saying "It was difficult at first time, but eventually it got easier", it's more concise to say "It was difficult at first, but eventually it got easier".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at first time" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate when something occurred initially. Ludwig identifies its proper usage, but also points out alternative expressions.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at first time" is considered grammatically correct according to Ludwig, although less common than alternatives like "for the first time". While usable, it's important to ensure the context clearly indicates the first occurrence of something. It appears in both scientific and news contexts. When writing, be mindful of potential redundancy and consider more concise alternatives. While usable, according to Ludwig AI, it is important to remember more common expressions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for the first time

This alternative is a more standard and widely accepted way to express the same meaning.

initially

This alternative is a single-word adverb that conveys the idea of something happening at the beginning.

at the beginning

This alternative emphasizes the starting point of an event or process.

in the beginning

This alternative focuses on the initial stage or phase of something.

when first starting

This alternative highlights the act of commencing something.

upon initial exposure

This alternative is often used in scientific or technical contexts to describe the first encounter with something.

at the outset

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the very start of something.

to begin with

This alternative is used to introduce the first point in a series or discussion.

at the get-go

This alternative is informal and emphasizes the immediate start of an activity.

in its early stages

This alternative focuses on the developmental phase of something.

FAQs

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

The phrase "at first time" indicates an action or experience occurring for the very first time. For example, "The silver nanobowls were synthesized "at first time" using T. viride."

Is "at first time" grammatically correct?

According to Ludwig AI, the phrase "at first time" is grammatically correct and usable in written English, though alternatives like "for the first time" might be more common.

What's a more common alternative to "at first time"?

A more common alternative to "at first time" is "for the first time". This phrase is widely accepted and understood in various contexts.

Which is better, "at first time" or "the first time"?

While "at first time" is considered correct, "the first time" is generally preferred in most contexts for its clarity and wider acceptance.