first order

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "first order" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts such as mathematics, logic, or discussions about hierarchy or priority. Example: "In first order logic, we can express statements about objects and their relationships."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

First order of business: bathrooms.

The New Yorker

The first order, he said, "worked out.

The New York Times

First order probabilistic logics.

University of California, Berkeley

First order methods.

Princeton University

That was my first order.

The Guardian - Business

But she's not first order.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

Pseudo-first order rate coefficients.

Stanford University

Tax is not a first-order consideration.

The New York Times

Innovation in this area is first-order.

The New York Times

First-order logic.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

first-order effects.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "first order" in technical contexts, ensure it's clearly defined if referring to mathematical, logical, or organizational hierarchies.

Common error

Avoid using "first order" loosely in informal settings where simpler terms like "primary" or "initial" would be clearer.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "first order" primarily functions as an adjective modifying a noun, specifying a priority, sequence, or degree, as demonstrated in Ludwig's examples such as "first order of business" or in science, as in "first order derivatives".

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "first order" is a versatile phrase used to denote priority, sequence, or degree, primarily functioning as an adjective. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse contexts, including science, news media, and academia. While generally formal and scientific, understanding its specific meaning in different fields, such as mathematics or business, is crucial for effective communication. Remember to consider simpler alternatives like "primary" or "initial" in informal settings to maintain clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

primary importance

Emphasizes the significance of something being of utmost importance.

number one priority

Directly states that something is the most important.

initial priority

Highlights the initial ranking or precedence given to something.

chief concern

Indicates the main worry or focus.

foremost consideration

Stresses that something should be considered before anything else.

topmost rank

Denotes the highest position in a hierarchy.

principal task

Highlights the main duty or assignment.

first magnitude

Implies a high degree of importance or impact.

basic level

Refers to the fundamental or elementary stage or degree.

first stage

Indicates the beginning or initial phase of a process.

FAQs

What does "first order" mean in mathematics?

In mathematics, "first order" often refers to equations or systems where the highest derivative is of the first degree. It can also relate to "first order logic", a system of formal logic.

How can I use "first order" in a sentence about priorities?

You can say, "The "first order" of business is to secure funding for the project," indicating the most immediate and important task.

What are some alternatives to "first order" in a business context?

In business, consider using phrases like "highest priority", "primary concern", or "initial focus" instead of "first order" for clearer communication.

Is "first-order" or "first order" more correct?

Both forms are acceptable, but "first-order" is often used as a compound adjective (e.g., "first-order approximation"). "First order" is used when "order" functions as a noun (e.g., "the first order of business").