first available opportunity

USAGE SUMMARY

"first available opportunity" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to refer to the next possible chance that one has to do something. For example: "I will apply for the job at the first available opportunity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

They bred at the first available opportunity, producing two cubs in 2013 as revealed by this camera trap footage.

The Guardian

So at the first available opportunity, we'll be rolling up our sleeves (or in some cases extending our noses).

The New York Times

"He is willing to take responsibility for what he did and he pleaded guilty at the first available opportunity he had," he said.

The Guardian - Sport

The Greens said they would move a disallowance motion against the changes at the first available opportunity after the resumption of parliament next year.

The Guardian

That means he gets the first choice of bringing forward a private member's bill at the first available opportunity, on Friday 5 July.

The Guardian

Since then I took the first available opportunity to move back to the iPhone and realistically I can't see myself owning an HTC again".

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

Surely the first minister would use every available opportunity to block Brexit?

The Times

"I want to establish a second inquiry to begin at the earliest available opportunity, ideally now - this summer," he said.

Independent

That is why I want to establish a second inquiry to begin at the earliest available opportunity, ideally now, this summer.

The New York Times

This is the next available opportunity".

The New York Times - Sports

Search Arts & Sciencess" to see available opportunities.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "first available opportunity" to clearly convey a sense of urgency or prioritization in completing an action. This indicates efficiency and a proactive approach.

Common error

Avoid using "first available opportunity" when there are known obstacles that prevent immediate action. This phrase implies readiness, so ensure the context aligns with actual feasibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "first available opportunity" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate when an action will occur. Ludwig examples show it specifying the timing of actions such as addressing concerns or implementing changes.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "first available opportunity" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that signifies that an action will be taken as soon as it is possible. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its validity and frequency in news, science, and business contexts. When using this phrase, it is important to ensure that immediate action is genuinely feasible to avoid miscommunication. While alternative phrases exist, "first available opportunity" provides a clear and direct way to convey urgency and prioritization.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

earliest chance possible

Emphasizes the timing, highlighting the soonest possibility.

next best moment

Highlights the succession of time-sensitive moments.

soonest practical moment

Implies a degree of feasibility and readiness.

immediate opening

Suggests a gap or vacancy that arises suddenly.

the moment the chance arises

Highlights contingency and how conditions need to align.

at the earliest convenience

Focuses on expediting the action within constraints.

when the occasion permits

Highlights the external conditions being satisfactory.

as soon as feasible

Highlights the importance of being practical.

at the drop of a hat

Highlights speed in reaction.

without delay

Emphasizes immediacy.

FAQs

How can I use "first available opportunity" in a sentence?

Use "first available opportunity" to indicate that something will be done as soon as it is possible to do so. For example: "I will address your concerns at the "first available opportunity"."

What are some alternatives to "first available opportunity"?

Alternatives include phrases like "earliest chance possible", "next best moment", or "soonest practical moment" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "at the soonest available opportunity"?

While understandable, "at the "soonest available opportunity"" is less common and can sound slightly awkward. "First available opportunity" is the more standard and widely accepted phrasing.

What does "first available opportunity" imply about timing?

"First available opportunity" implies that an action will be taken without unnecessary delay and as promptly as circumstances permit. It conveys a commitment to acting quickly once it is feasible.