for a first glimpse

USAGE SUMMARY

"for a first glimpse" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when trying to describe a first or initial encounter with something. For example, "We opened the door for a first glimpse of the new house."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Council leader Joe Anderson has come to the docks for a first glimpse of what the money has bought.

The Guardian

In the role of the crowd were 22,397 fans who had come for a first glimpse of the Mets' new home.

The New York Times - Sports

The man who prefers to be called Cashetta is pacing the stage in a sparkly black frock and a waterfall of a wig, waiting for a first glimpse of the latest sweetheart of Barracuda Lounge.

The New York Times - Arts

STOCKHOLM — On a cold evening in mid-February, an international mix of journalists, scholars and curators gathered inside the Moderna Museet in Stockholm for a first glimpse at an exhibit of works by a Swedish pioneer that threatens to upend long-held views about the origins of 20th-century abstract art.

The New York Times - Arts

In the Nassau County district court, Room 198 overflowed on Thursday morning with police officers wearing their badges wrapped in black in mourning for Officer Lopez, with relatives of Mr. Facey and with journalists craning for a first glimpse of Mr. Fuller.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

We showed that read pair analysis of a paired-end sequenced RRL is already sufficient for obtaining a first glimpse of SVs in a particular sequenced species.

BMC Genomics

Perhaps most importantly the book serves as either a reminder for some or a first glimpse for others at how ecstatic Love is to be a Beach Boy.

Los Angeles Times

I stood and watched visitors' reactions for a while: a first glimpse would stop them in their tracks, and then confusion would take hold, followed by intense discussion.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Different substrates require distinct surface residues for binding, affording a first glimpse into the substrate selectivity of human O-GlcNAcase.

Biochemical Journal

By turns dark, melodramatic and hopeful, the original movie, released in 1980, achieved cult status among a generation of performers for whom it offered a first glimpse of artistic life.

The New York Times

Handspring Puppet Company, best known for its work on War Horse, gives a first glimpse of its creations for a new show based on Ted Hughes's dark and mythical Crow poems.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "for a first glimpse" when you want to emphasize the initial or introductory nature of an observation or understanding. This phrase is particularly effective when describing eagerly anticipated or revealing moments.

Common error

Avoid using "for a first glimpse" when you actually mean a thorough examination or detailed analysis. "Glimpse" suggests a brief, often incomplete, view. Use other words or expressions to convey the true intention.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for a first glimpse" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb or noun. It typically describes the circumstances surrounding an initial observation or viewing of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and usable.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "for a first glimpse" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It functions as a prepositional phrase that indicates an initial or introductory view of something. While relatively rare, its usage spans various contexts, notably in News & Media and Science. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the intent of a brief or initial observation, rather than a thorough analysis. Consider alternatives like "for an initial peek" or "for an early look" to fine-tune the message. This phrase adds a subtle emphasis on the novelty or anticipation of a first encounter. According to the reliable sources analyzed by Ludwig, it is acceptable to employ the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for an initial peek

Replaces "glimpse" with "peek", suggesting a quick and casual look.

for a preliminary view

Uses "view" instead of "glimpse", implying a more comprehensive or considered look.

for an early look

Substitutes "first glimpse" with "early look", conveying a similar sense of priority and timing.

for an initial impression

Focuses on the impression gained rather than the act of seeing.

for a sneak preview

Implies a deliberately revealed, often partial, view before a full release.

to get a first sight

Replaces "for" with "to get" and "glimpse" with "sight", emphasizing the act of perceiving visually.

for a brief look

Emphasizes the brevity of the view.

for a quick peek

Combines brevity and casualness.

to get an inkling

Shifts the focus to obtaining a slight understanding rather than a visual impression.

for a preliminary assessment

Moves away from a visual sense, focusing on an initial evaluation.

FAQs

How can I use "for a first glimpse" in a sentence?

You can use "for a first glimpse" to describe an initial or introductory view of something. For example, "The doors opened "for a first glimpse" of the new exhibit."

What phrases are similar to "for a first glimpse"?

Similar phrases include "for an initial peek", "for an early look", or "for a preliminary view". The choice depends on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is there a more formal alternative to "for a first glimpse"?

Yes, "for a preliminary assessment" is a more formal alternative when referring to an initial evaluation or understanding.

When is it inappropriate to use "for a first glimpse"?

Avoid using "for a first glimpse" if you are describing a detailed or comprehensive review. The phrase implies a brief or initial observation.