first among all

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "first among all" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something or someone is the most important or prominent in a particular group or category. Example: "In the realm of innovation, she is considered first among all the inventors of her time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

ESPN ranked him first among all recruits in 2006.

The Guardian - Sport

I was the first among all our friends to have a baby".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Shockingly, Rivera, who has four World Series rings, said this postseason victory ranks first among all of them?

The New York Times - Sports

As recently as 2009, the school maintains, it ranked first among all American universities for endowment performance.

The New York Times

The result: Texans ranked first among all black fourth graders in the nation on the federally administered National Assessment of Educational Progress and Hispanic Texans sixth.

The New York Times

In its recently published Affordability Index, the Alliance for Affordable Internet (A4AI) ranked Rwanda 10th overall, and first among all developing countries.

The Guardian

It has often ranked first among all shows in television in percentage of audience increase when seven days' worth of playback is included.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Slater ranks second among all full-backs in try assists despite missing three games with injury.

The Guardian - Sport

Holik has 16 points in the four-round playoffs, tied for ninth among all scorers.

The New York Times - Sports

In 2000, horses he rode earned more than $14.4 million, ranking him fourth among all jockeys.

The New York Times - Sports

The Blue Devils won their 80th N.C.A.A. tournament game, ranking third among all colleges.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "first among all", ensure that the context clearly defines the group or category being referenced to avoid ambiguity. For instance, instead of just stating "He was first among all", specify "He was first among all graduates in his class".

Common error

While grammatically sound, using "first among all" in very casual conversation can sound overly formal or stilted. Opt for simpler alternatives like "the best" or "number one" in such situations to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "first among all" functions as a superlative modifier, indicating the highest position or rank within a specific group. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It is commonly employed to denote prominence or priority.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

39%

News & Media

35%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "first among all" signifies preeminence or top ranking within a defined group. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness, with usage skewed towards news, science, and wiki contexts. While versatile, its formal tone suits structured communication. Consider simpler alternatives in casual settings. Remember to clearly define the referenced group to avoid ambiguity. This phrase effectively highlights superior status, marking an entity as leading within its category.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Primary among all

Emphasizes the element of being the most important or principal.

Foremost among all

Highlights the aspect of coming before all others in importance or position.

Chief among all

Stresses the role of being the leader or the most significant.

Topmost among all

Focuses on the physical or hierarchical position at the summit.

Leading among all

Highlights the aspect of guiding or directing others.

Paramount among all

Emphasizes the supreme importance or dominance.

Principal among all

Focuses on being the main or most important.

Pre-eminent among all

Highlights superior excellence or fame.

Supreme among all

Stresses the ultimate or highest nature.

Elite among all

Focuses on the select few with exceptional qualities.

FAQs

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

The phrase "first among all" is used to indicate the highest rank or priority within a group. For example: "The WHO published 3 articles and ranked "first among all" institutions."

What are some alternatives to "first among all"?

Alternatives include "primary among all", "foremost among all", or "chief among all", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "first among all" or "the best"?

The choice depends on the context. "The best" is more informal and general, while "first among all" suggests a formal ranking within a defined group.

What does "first among all" imply about the other items in the group?

It implies that while other items or members exist within the group, the one designated as "first among all" possesses superior qualities, performance, or importance compared to the rest.