first evidence

USAGE SUMMARY

"first evidence" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when something is being presented or discussed for the first time. For example: "The first evidence of human habitation in the area was found in a cave near the river."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The first evidence was the most superficial.

The New Yorker

Scientists today announced the first evidence of cosmic inflation.

Harvard University

This study provides the first evidence for the latter possibility.

Cognitive Development

It was the first evidence of limited sticking power.

The Guardian

The flurry of statements is the first evidence of that.

The Guardian

The tape was the prosecution's first evidence in the case.

The New York Times

First evidence of a non-avian dinosaur podotheca.

Nature

This is the first evidence of ubiquinol-cytochrome c reductase bioelectrocatalysis.

Electrochimica Acta

First evidence of a monolayer on platinum substrate was revealed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy.

Surface and Coatings Technology

The findings provide the first evidence to favor levetiracetam in infants.

Cornell University

We provide the first evidence that online education affects the number of people pursuing formal education.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Clearly state what the "first evidence" pertains to, avoiding ambiguity in its relevance to the claim or argument being made.

Common error

Avoid presenting "first evidence" as definitive proof. Acknowledge it as an initial indication that may require further investigation or corroboration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "first evidence" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence. It introduces an initial observation or finding that supports a claim or hypothesis. Ludwig provides examples from various sources, confirming its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

36%

Academia

23%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "first evidence" is a grammatically correct and frequently used term to introduce initial support for a claim or finding. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is widely accepted in written English. This phrase commonly appears in scientific, news, and academic contexts, indicating its versatility and importance in conveying new information. When using "first evidence", ensure you contextualize its significance and avoid overstating its conclusiveness. Alternatives like "initial proof" or "earliest indication" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. With a strong presence in authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian, "first evidence" remains a valuable asset in effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initial proof

Focuses on the verification aspect rather than the temporal sequence of discovery.

earliest indication

Highlights the temporal aspect of the evidence being the earliest available.

primary clue

Emphasizes the role of the evidence as a hint or guide in an investigation.

foundational support

Stresses the role of the evidence as a basis for further understanding or building upon.

pioneering demonstration

Highlights the innovative or groundbreaking nature of the evidence.

original confirmation

Focuses on the evidence as the original source that validates a claim.

incipient sign

Emphasizes that the evidence is an early, emerging indicator.

initial finding

Replaces 'evidence' with 'finding', often used in research contexts.

groundbreaking discovery

Highlights the novelty and impact of the discovery.

preliminary indication

Suggests the evidence is not yet conclusive but points in a certain direction.

FAQs

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

You can use "first evidence" to introduce an initial finding or indication. For example, "This study provides the "first evidence" that visual information affects word processing in infants."

What are some alternatives to "first evidence"?

Alternatives include phrases like "initial proof", "earliest indication", or "primary clue", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "first evidence" in formal writing?

Yes, "first evidence" is appropriate for formal writing, especially in academic and scientific contexts where the presentation of new findings is common. See Ludwig AI.

What's the difference between "first evidence" and "conclusive evidence"?

"First evidence" refers to the initial indication or proof of something, while "conclusive evidence" represents proof that is strong enough to resolve an issue or argument. "First evidence" often leads to the pursuit of "conclusive evidence".