first contact

USAGE SUMMARY

"first contact" is an appropriate and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe an initial meeting between two people or two groups of people who are unfamiliar with one another. For example, "The Prime Minister had her first contact with foreign dignitaries during the summit."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

First, contact the I.R.S.

The New York Times

This first contact quickly produced other engagements.

The New York Times - Magazine

First Contact was a particular talking point.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The strident whack of first contact.

The New Yorker

That was my first contact with the idea of ropes.

The Guardian - Arts

The victim's first contact after an assault is crucial.

The New York Times

Ten minutes before first contact, the sun became briefly visible.

The New Yorker

"We are the first contact with injured people.

The Guardian

It actually allows people to have first contact sometimes".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Existing measures rarely encompassed service avoidance post-first contact.

BMC Psychiatry

'If it's not a first-contact situation, then it's fraudulent.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about scientific or speculative fiction contexts, use "first contact" to evoke the sense of novelty and potential danger of encountering a new species or civilization. Ensure the context is clear to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "first contact" when a simpler phrase like "initial meeting" or "first meeting" is more appropriate. The phrase carries a certain weight and can sound overly dramatic in everyday contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "first contact" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject or object within a sentence. It describes an initial interaction or meeting, as seen in Ludwig examples like "That was my first contact with the idea of ropes."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

22%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "first contact" is commonly and appropriately used to describe an initial meeting, particularly one of significance. Ludwig AI confirms its suitability for various contexts. As a noun phrase, it serves to denote the commencement of an interaction, often carrying connotations of novelty or potential impact. It's seen most frequently in News & Media, Science, and Wiki, maintaining a neutral to formal register. When using "first contact", be mindful of the context to avoid unintended dramatic tones, and explore alternatives like "initial meeting" when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initial meeting

Focuses on the aspect of a meeting being the first.

opening interaction

Highlights the interactive aspect of the first encounter.

maiden encounter

Emphasizes the newness and inexperience of the encounter.

first approach

Emphasizes the act of initiating contact.

preliminary communication

Specifically refers to the start of communication.

introductory exchange

Highlights the exchange of information or greetings.

inaugural contact

Formal and emphasizes the beginning.

original connection

Focuses on the establishment of a link or relationship.

groundbreaking encounter

Suggests the encounter is innovative and unique.

pioneering interaction

Highlights the idea of exploring new ground.

FAQs

What does "first contact" typically refer to?

The phrase "first contact" usually denotes the initial meeting between two previously unacquainted individuals or groups, often implying a significant cultural or societal impact. It's commonly used in discussions of potential encounters with extraterrestrial life, as noted by "Ludwig AI".

How can I use "first contact" in a sentence?

You can use "first contact" to describe the beginning of any interaction or relationship, such as, "Their first contact was through a mutual friend" or, in a more speculative sense, "Scientists are preparing for the possibility of first contact with extraterrestrial civilizations."

What are some alternatives to using "first contact"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "initial meeting", "maiden encounter", or "opening interaction". The best choice will depend on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "first contact" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "first contact" is appropriate for formal writing, especially in scientific, speculative, or historical contexts. However, consider your audience and the specific tone you want to convey. In some cases, a more straightforward phrase like "initial interaction" may be preferable.