first despatched

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "first despatched" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate the initial action of sending something out, often in a logistical or shipping context. Example: "The package was first despatched on Monday, and it is expected to arrive by Friday."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

WHEN Raymond Chandler first despatched Philip Marlowe, his fictional private detective, to the grimy back streets of Los Angeles, he launched a model for intelligent crime fiction.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Oil-rich Iraq had become the "number one danger spot", it warned in its first despatch on the events.

The Guardian - Opinion

But she made it into Colliers with her first despatch from Normandy, taking her signature focus on civilians and the casualties of war.

BBC

"Although we aren't playing right in the middle of the square, Steven Mullaney's huge six off Gareth Berg was one of the biggest blows seen on this ground for many a year - and the first to be despatched over the roof of the New Stand.

BBC

But the film's third act despatches her to "get help" right after planting a big wet one on young Justin, who is about to go do something brave and foolish.

The Guardian - Film

The second unit was despatched to gather beautiful and captivating visual ephemera – including breathtaking images of the film's two lovers before a real lightning storm at sundown, and pennants of ducks quacking their way though the magic-hour's crepuscular golden light – while soundmen taped riotous birdsong, forest murmurs and the hiss and babble of water in motion.

The Guardian - Film

This player despatched the first two – the easiest ones – with grace and verve, but thereafter one winced as he struggled.

Independent

Marco Reus despatched his first two goals in the carefree manner of a schoolboy kicking an empty Coke can in the playground.

The Guardian - Sport

England's newest international had been a growing influence with his midfield breaks, one had already prompted Everton's first equaliser when Baines despatched a free-kick awarded when James Collins brought him down.

Independent

Not the start Hearts intended, but their young midfielder Jamie Walker despatched an ninth-minute shot goalwards for Craig Samson to deal with and thereby remind the hosts of their threat.

BBC

He was sent from Italy to England by Pope Gregory the Great, on a mission to Christianize the Anglo-Saxons from their native paganism, probably arriving with the second group of missionaries despatched in 601.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "first despatched" when you want to emphasize the initial act of sending something, particularly in a formal or historical context.

Common error

Avoid using "first despatched" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "initially sent" or "first sent out" for better clarity and naturalness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "first despatched" functions as an adjective modifying a noun, indicating the initial act of sending or shipping something. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "first despatched" is a grammatically correct phrase used to denote the initial act of sending something. Though the phrase is deemed correct by Ludwig AI, it is relatively rare and leans toward formal contexts such as News & Media, and Wiki. When aiming for clarity or writing for a broader audience, alternatives like "initially sent" or "first sent out" may be more suitable. While grammatically sound, consider the formality of the situation before using the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initially sent

Replaces "despatched" with the more common "sent" and "first" with "initially", focusing on the beginning of the sending process.

originally shipped

Uses "shipped" instead of "despatched", implying a more logistical context.

initially dispatched

A more formal synonym, replacing "first" with "initially".

first sent out

Emphasizes the action of sending something outwards.

first forwarded

Suggests that something was sent onward to a destination.

first conveyed

Implies a formal or official transmission.

first transmitted

Often used when referring to information or data.

first released

Suggests something was made available or let go initially.

first mailed

Specifically refers to sending something via postal service.

earliest delivery

Focuses on the initial act of delivering something.

FAQs

What does "first despatched" mean?

The phrase "first despatched" means that something was initially sent or shipped out. It emphasizes the initial act of sending something on its way.

What can I say instead of "first despatched"?

You can use alternatives like "initially sent", "originally shipped", or "first sent out" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "first despatched"?

It's appropriate to use "first despatched" in formal writing or when emphasizing the historical aspect of something being sent. However, simpler terms are often preferred in informal contexts.

Is "first dispatched" the same as "first despatched"?

Yes, "first dispatched" and "first despatched" are essentially the same, with "despatched" being more common in British English. Choose the spelling that aligns with your target audience or publication's style guide.