first known

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "first known" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to the first time something becomes known or discovered, for example: The first known instance of this rare species of tree was recorded in the 1700s.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This was its first known appearance in eastern North America.

The New Yorker

This was the phrase's coinage, its first known use.

The New Yorker

Founded by Irish Protestants, it was first known as Orange.

The New York Times

Simpson's was the first known death in the Tour's history.

The Guardian

Plateosaurs were the first known large herbivores among the dinosaurs.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It was the world's first known government search.

The New York Times - Science

The world's first known photograph had been taken in 1826.

The Economist

Schoolgirl Vicky Hamilton was Peter Tobin's first known murder victim.

Independent

It was the first known murder in the island's history.

The Economist

The first known Konkani inscription dates to 1187.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Todd Lynn was first known for his lean tailoring.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "first known", ensure you have reliable evidence to support the claim that it is indeed the earliest instance. Citing your sources adds credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "first known" without sufficient evidence. It's better to say "one of the earliest known" if you are unsure about its absolute precedence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "first known" functions primarily as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It indicates that something is the earliest instance or occurrence that has been recognized or documented. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage is grammatically sound and frequently observed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "first known" is a grammatically correct and frequently used adjective phrase that signifies the earliest recognized instance of something. As validated by Ludwig AI, its usage spans across diverse contexts, including news, science, encyclopedias, and wiki sources. While "first known" maintains a neutral register, it's important to ensure that claims of precedence are well-supported by evidence. Related phrases like "earliest recorded" and "initial discovery" offer alternative ways to express the concept. When employing "first known", users should avoid overstating claims and carefully qualify their statements if there's uncertainty about absolute precedence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

earliest recorded

Focuses on the earliest documented occurrence rather than the earliest awareness.

primary instance

Highlights that this is the main or original case.

initial discovery

Emphasizes the act of finding or learning something for the first time.

oldest recognized

Highlights the age and acknowledgment of something as the oldest.

leading example

Implies something is the initial and notable instance.

premier documented

Stresses the official recording of something that is considered the first.

inaugural occurrence

Formal term for a first time event.

original observation

Focuses on the initial act of noticing or perceiving something.

groundbreaking introduction

Highlights the innovative aspect of something being introduced.

genesis

Indicates the origin or beginning of something.

FAQs

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

Use "first known" to specify the earliest documented or recognized instance of something, like "This is the "first known" case of this disease".

What's a good alternative to "first known"?

Consider using alternatives such as "earliest recorded", "initial discovery", or "oldest recognized" depending on the context.

Which is more accurate, "first known" or "earliest known"?

"First known" and "earliest known" are often interchangeable. However, "first known" may imply the initial recognition, while "earliest known" focuses more on the time of existence.

Is it correct to use "first known" even if there might be earlier instances?

It's best to qualify your statement. Instead of "first known", you could say "one of the earliest known" or "the earliest currently known" if you suspect there might be earlier undocumented instances.