first orders

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "first orders" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are referring to initial commands or requests, often in a sequential or hierarchical manner. Example: "The team was instructed to prioritize the first orders before addressing any additional tasks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Default for first orders is 21.48A.

Harvard University

"It is one of the first orders of business we will turn to".

The New York Times - Sports

A digital deal for the Beatles was one of his first orders of business.

The New York Times

But one of the first orders of business in many states will be redistricting.

The New York Times

The Christmas rush begins as early as August when Alexandersen receives his first orders.

Independent

One of the first orders of business was to buy equipment.

The New York Times

Those are important, but they are also just the first orders of what could be happening.

Stanford University

As one of the first orders of business, the city redesigned its seal.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 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

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "first orders" in a professional setting, ensure clarity by specifying who issued the orders and what they entail. Provide context to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "first orders" repeatedly in close proximity without varying your language. Diversify your phrasing by using synonyms or rephrasing to maintain reader engagement and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "first orders" functions as a noun phrase, typically referring to initial instructions, priorities, or arrangements. Ludwig examples show its usage in various contexts, often implying a sequence or hierarchy of actions to be taken.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Academia

13%

Science

13%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "first orders" is a common and grammatically correct way to refer to initial instructions, priorities, or actions. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used across various domains, including News & Media, Academia, and Science. While generally neutral in tone, context is important to ensure clarity and avoid overuse. Consider alternatives like "initial directives" or "primary commands" for more formal settings or to diversify your writing. Pay attention to whom the orders come from and what they mean in a precise way.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initial directives

This alternative replaces "orders" with "directives", emphasizing the instructional aspect.

primary commands

This uses "commands" instead of "orders", suggesting a more authoritative instruction.

initial priorities

Focuses on the importance given to certain actions at the beginning.

starting instructions

This highlights the act of beginning a sequence of actions.

first requests

Replaces "orders" with "requests", softening the tone.

early demands

Conveys a sense of urgency or necessity at the start.

preliminary arrangements

Focuses on preparations made at the beginning.

inaugural tasks

This emphasizes the beginning or initiation of tasks.

opening procedures

Focuses on the procedural aspect of the initial steps.

original regulations

Highlights the rules set at the beginning.

FAQs

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

You can use "first orders" to describe the initial instructions or tasks that need to be addressed. For example, "One of his "first orders of business" was to reorganize the department".

What's a more formal alternative to "first orders"?

More formal alternatives include "initial directives" or "primary commands", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "first orders"?

"First orders" is suitable in situations where you want to emphasize the sequence or prioritization of tasks or instructions, especially when addressing the beginning stages of a process or project.

Is "first orders" the same as "first order of business"?

While related, "first order of business" typically refers to the most important or urgent task to be addressed, whereas "first orders" can refer to a set of initial instructions or actions.