first of a kind

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "first of a kind" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to something that is novel or unique, and is the first of its kind. For example, "This software is the first of its kind, designed to automate the manual process of data entry."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

A first of a kind field trial is reported.

Applied Ergonomics

"We are the first of a kind, after all".

The Guardian

(10) First of a kind testing for reactor stability (first plant only).

Cornell University

"It's hard whenever you're a pioneer trying to do a first of a kind," he said.

The New York Times

It is a common approach in what nuclear engineers call "first of a kind" projects.

The New York Times

As an additional safety measure in the new 700 MWe Indian pressurized heavy water reactors, the first of a kind system called containment Spray System is introduced.

Nuclear Engineering and Design

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

"This is a first-of-a-kind campaign," he adds.

The New York Times

But Yucca Mountain also has first-of-a-kind disadvantages.

The New York Times

Sliding and seizure conditions were simulated on first-of-a-kind displacement controlled system.

Wear

"it's a first-of-a-kind dome, and we want it to be perfect," he says.

Columbia University

The first-of-a-kind nature means supply chain complexity, too.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In technical writing, use "first of a kind" to highlight the novelty and challenges associated with a new design or system.

Common error

Avoid using "first of a kind" when describing something that is merely unique within a limited context. The phrase implies absolute uniqueness, so ensure that the subject truly has no prior equivalent in any field.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "first of a kind" functions as an adjective phrase, typically used to modify a noun and indicate that the noun is unique or unprecedented. Ludwig examples show its use in describing arrangements, systems, and designs.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

32%

Less common in

Academia

15%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "first of a kind" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe something unique and unprecedented. It functions as an adjective phrase and is used across a variety of contexts, including science, news, and business. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English, emphasizing its novelty and originality. While alternatives like "unique" and "unprecedented" exist, "first of a kind" provides a specific emphasis on the pioneering nature of the subject. When using this phrase, ensure that the subject is truly without prior equivalent to avoid overgeneralization.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unique

Focuses solely on the characteristic of being unlike anything else.

unprecedented

Emphasizes that something has not happened or existed before, particularly on a large scale.

novel

Highlights the new and original aspect of something.

groundbreaking

Suggests that something is innovative and paves the way for future developments.

pioneering

Indicates that something is the first to explore or develop a particular area.

original

Simply states that something is not a copy and is the first of its creation.

innovative

Highlights the new and inventive qualities of something.

unmatched

Implies that something is so unique it has no equal.

singular

Emphasizes the one-of-a-kind nature of something.

unparalleled

Similar to unmatched, but more formally emphasizes the lack of comparison.

FAQs

How can I use "first of a kind" in a sentence?

You can use "first of a kind" to describe something that is novel or unique. For example, "This is a "first of a kind" arrangement," or "The system is "first of a kind" with a net output power of 300 MWe."

What are some alternatives to "first of a kind"?

Some alternatives to "first of a kind" include "unique", "unprecedented", or "novel", depending on the specific context.

Is it redundant to say "first-of-its-kind"?

While "first-of-its-kind" is grammatically acceptable, ""first of a kind"" is often preferred for its simplicity and clarity. Both emphasize the uniqueness of something.

What implications does labeling something as "first of a kind" have?

Labeling something as ""first of a kind"" suggests innovation and a lack of precedent, which can attract attention but also implies potential risks and challenges associated with pioneering something new.