first hint

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "first hint" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when introducing an initial clue or indication about something, often in a context of problem-solving or revealing information gradually. Example: "The first hint to solving the puzzle is to look for patterns in the numbers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The giant screen is the first hint.

The New York Times

The first hint was the silence.

The New York Times - Science

The first hint that such antibodies exist emerged in 1993.

The New York Times - Science

Your first hint is the enormous arrangement of fresh flowers.

The New York Times

The first hint of trouble came on April 1.

The New York Times

The first hint of trouble came soon after.

The New York Times

This was the first hint of what lay ahead.

The Guardian - Sport

"These cops are going to kill me," Mr. Thornton said, betraying the first hint of fear.

The New York Times

At the first hint of abuse, call the authorities and open an investigation.

The New York Times

The mammoth lets up only at the first hint of sunlight.

The New Yorker

At the first hint of trouble, classes are suspended and campuses roped off.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "first hint" to introduce the earliest indication or clue related to a situation, problem, or mystery to engage your reader or listener from the outset.

Common error

Avoid using "first hint" repeatedly within a short span. Vary your language by using synonyms such as "initial clue" or "early sign" to maintain reader engagement and avoid redundancy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "first hint" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object of a preposition. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and widely used. Examples show it introducing an initial indication or clue in a narrative or explanation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

24%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "first hint" is a versatile and widely used noun phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig. It functions to introduce an initial clue or indication across diverse contexts, most notably in News & Media and Science. Its neutral register makes it suitable for both formal and informal writing. To avoid overuse, consider alternatives such as "initial clue" or "early indication". According to Ludwig, "first hint" is grammatically sound and commonly found in reputable sources, making it a reliable choice for clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initial clue

Focuses on the aspect of a clue or piece of information that helps solve a problem.

early indication

Highlights the temporal aspect of something appearing or becoming noticeable at an early stage.

preliminary sign

Emphasizes that the sign is preparatory or introductory to something more significant.

opening suggestion

Implies a gentle introduction or proposal rather than a definite clue.

original intimation

Stresses the idea of something being communicated indirectly or subtly from the beginning.

dawning realization

Focuses on the process of understanding that begins with a small piece of information.

incipient signal

Highlights that the signal is just beginning to appear or develop.

primary lead

Emphasizes the idea of a main or important piece of information that guides further investigation.

starting point

Indicates the beginning of an investigation or understanding, not necessarily a clue.

first inkling

Suggests a vague or uncertain idea about something.

FAQs

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

You can use "first hint" to introduce an initial clue or indication. For example, "The "first hint" was the silence" or "That was the "first hint" that there might be something different".

What can I say instead of "first hint"?

You can use alternatives like "initial clue", "early indication", or "preliminary sign" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say 'the first hint' or 'a first hint'?

Both are grammatically correct, but "the "first hint"" is more common when referring to a specific clue in a defined situation. "A "first hint"" is used when introducing one of several possible early indications.

What's the difference between "first hint" and "initial clue"?

"First hint" is a more general term for an early indication. "Initial clue" specifically implies a piece of information that aids in solving a problem or mystery.