first observation

USAGE SUMMARY

"first observation" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize that something is the first in a list of observations or facts. For example, "My first observation was that the climate has changed significantly in the last 20 years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"He's definitely not a 10," is Jones's first observation.

The Guardian - Sport

My first observation was memorable for a number of reasons.

The Guardian

My first observation has to do with the scale of the thing.

The Guardian

The first observation by the researchers came 30 minutes after infection.

The New York Times - Health

On his return, Jones's first observation on Mallinder was: "He's definitely not a 10".

The Guardian - Sport

His cheeky first observation was, "How do you know it's Lenin?

The New Yorker

After 15 minutes, Ms. Cho made her first observation: "The thing about human nature is to distrust people who excel.

The New York Times - Style

"My first observation is that she has exceptionally good taste in poetry," Mr. Muldoon wrote in an e-mail message.

The New York Times

Construction of the GTC began in 2000; it made its first observation in 2007.

Encyclopedia Britannica

My first observation is that, as in ballet, form is all-important.

The New York Times - Sports

Which leads to the first observation:  Perception of risk is based on experience.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "first observation" to clearly signal the start of a series of points or findings, especially when presenting data or arguments in a structured manner.

Common error

Avoid using "first observation" without providing context or follow-up observations. It should introduce a specific point, not stand alone as a vague remark.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "first observation" functions as an introductory marker to signal the beginning of a set of observations or findings. It helps to structure information and guide the reader or listener through a logical progression of points. Ludwig examples show a wide applicability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "first observation" is a versatile phrase used to introduce an initial point or finding in a structured manner. It is grammatically correct and widely employed across diverse domains, particularly in science and news media. Ludwig AI indicates that it is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English. When using this phrase, ensure that it clearly introduces a specific point and is followed by further context or observations. While suitable for both formal and informal contexts, it finds greater use in analytical and professional settings due to its role in organizing information. Alternative phrases include "initial assessment", "preliminary finding", and "opening remark", each offering a slightly different emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

primary detection

Suitable when the observation involves identifying something for the first time.

basic finding

Suggests it's a fundamental takeaway.

initial assessment

Focuses on the evaluation aspect rather than just the act of noticing.

original insight

Focuses on the novelty and depth of the observation.

preliminary finding

Emphasizes that the observation is part of an ongoing investigation and may not be conclusive.

early conclusion

Implies a judgment or inference made at an early stage.

opening remark

Highlights the introductory nature of the statement, especially in a formal setting.

initial impression

Relates more to a subjective feeling or understanding gained at the beginning.

first impression

More personal and based on feelings.

starting point

More generic, referring to the beginning of an analysis or discussion.

FAQs

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

You can use "first observation" to introduce an initial point or finding, as in, "My first observation was that the data showed a significant increase in sales."

What are some alternatives to "first observation"?

Alternatives include "initial assessment", "preliminary finding", or "opening remark", depending on the context.

Is "first observation" formal or informal?

"First observation" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but it is often used in more structured or analytical settings.

What's the difference between "first observation" and "first impression"?

"First observation" typically refers to an objective finding or initial point, whereas "first impression" relates to a subjective feeling or understanding.