first time out

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "first time out" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to mean "the first time something is done/taken/seen/etc." For example, "She was nervous singing in front of an audience for the first time out."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"His first time out was very encouraging.

The Guardian - Sport

Not bad for a first time out, Mr. Schmiedeler.

The New York Times

By winning first time out, he had exceeded his limits.

The Guardian - Sport

"They both won the first time out," Mr. Wygod said.

The New York Times

"He said if he got a hit his first time out, he'd like to come out.

The New York Times - Sports

My first time out on the campaign trail, I got impossibly sick.

The New York Times

It was Reznor's first time out as a film composer, and his win was significant.

The New Yorker

Its first time out, the Roundabout Underground has done exactly what it was created to do.

The New York Times

It was my first time out, my old man's way of saying he trusted me.

The New Yorker

"We don't make any evaluations off the first time out," Torre said.

The New York Times - Sports

"Maybe I peaked the first time out," he said in 1997.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "first time out" to emphasize the novelty or inexperience associated with an initial attempt. It's often used to set expectations or provide context for performance.

Common error

While generally acceptable, avoid using "first time out" excessively in highly formal writing. Opt for more sophisticated synonyms like "initial debut" or "inaugural performance" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "first time out" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause, specifying the occasion when an action occurs. As shown in Ludwig, it is used to describe the initial instance of an event or activity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Wiki

8%

Huffington Post

7%

Less common in

Vice

4%

The New Yorker

3%

The Guardian

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "first time out" is a common and generally correct expression used to describe an initial experience or attempt. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used in various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While its informality might make it unsuitable for academic or highly formal writing, it effectively conveys the novelty or inexperience associated with a first occurrence. When choosing alternatives, consider the specific nuance you want to convey, such as emphasizing the formality of an event or the caution involved in an initial venture.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

first attempt

Highlights the act of trying something for the very first time.

first exposure

Highlights the initial introduction or contact with something.

first experience

Broadly refers to any kind of novel encounter or exposure.

initial foray

Suggests a cautious and exploratory first venture into something unfamiliar.

debut appearance

Emphasizes the public showing or introduction of something or someone.

initial debut

Focuses on the very first public appearance or performance.

inaugural performance

Emphasizes a formal and often celebrated first showing or display.

maiden voyage

Implies a first journey or undertaking, often with a sense of adventure.

fresh start

Suggests a new beginning, potentially after a previous unsuccessful attempt.

opening gambit

Implies a strategic first move, especially in a game or negotiation.

FAQs

How can I use "first time out" in a sentence?

You can use "first time out" to describe an initial experience, such as "His "first time out" was very encouraging" or "It was my "first time out" on the campaign trail".

What's a more formal way to say "first time out"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "inaugural performance" or "initial debut" depending on the context.

Is "first time out" appropriate for academic writing?

While understandable, "first time out" may be too informal for academic writing. Opt for more precise and formal alternatives like "initial attempt" or "first experience".

What does "first time out" mean?

"First time out" means the first occasion on which someone does something or something is used or tested. It emphasizes the newness of the situation.