for the first half

USAGE SUMMARY

"for the first half" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate the first part or portion of something, such as time or a distance. For example, you might say, "We will work on the project for the first half of the week before taking a break."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

For the first half, at least.

The Guardian - Film

My new wheels for the first half of the summer!

Cornell University

4. * 8 02)—Instrumental for the first half.

Stanford University

So it was 1/(a+ik) for the first half.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The script is decent enough too, for the first half.

The New York Times - Arts

For the first half hour, the game is a stunner.

The New Yorker

& her treatment for the first half of 1982.

The New Yorker

"For the first half an hour, it was excruciatingly awkward.

Independent

See articleBritain's big banks reported earnings for the first half.

The Economist

I am really thankful for the first half.

The Guardian - Sport

Peep, peep: That's it for the first half.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "for the first half" to clearly delineate the initial portion of a defined period, such as a year, game, or project timeline. This ensures clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "for the first half" when referring to durations shorter than intended. If you mean the first quarter or month, specify those periods instead of using this more general phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for the first half" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause by indicating a period of time. It specifies the initial portion of a duration, such as a game, year, or project. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Sport

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "for the first half" is a versatile and grammatically sound way to refer to the initial portion of a time period, event, or activity. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across different registers, ranging from news and media to academic writing. To ensure clarity, specify the period you're referencing, and avoid using it loosely for shorter durations. Consider alternatives like "during the initial portion" or "at the outset" for nuanced expression. With its frequent use and straightforward meaning, "for the first half" remains a reliable and common phrase in English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the first part

A simple and direct alternative, emphasizing the initial section.

for the opening segment

This is suitable when referring to a defined part of a larger event or period.

at first

A common and straightforward alternative, indicating the initial occurrence or impression.

during the initial portion

This alternative focuses on the temporal aspect, emphasizing the time frame.

in the beginning phase

This phrase highlights the starting stage or process.

in the early stages

Focuses on the developmental aspect of a process or project.

during the first stage

Highlights that the initial stage is one of many.

at the outset

This option is more concise and formal, indicating the commencement or starting point.

initially

A single-word adverb that can replace the phrase in certain contexts.

to begin with

This alternative emphasizes the sequential order of events.

FAQs

How can I use "for the first half" in a sentence?

You can use "for the first half" to specify the initial portion of a time period or event. For example, "The team performed well "for the first half" of the game."

What is a synonym for "for the first half"?

Alternatives to "for the first half" include "during the initial portion", "in the beginning phase", or "at the outset" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "during the first half" instead of "for the first half"?

Yes, "during the first half" is a correct and semantically similar alternative to "for the first half". They are often interchangeable, though "for the first half" may slightly emphasize duration, while "during the first half" emphasizes occurrence within that timeframe.

What's the difference between "for the first half" and "in the first half"?

"For the first half" generally indicates a duration or period, whereas "in the first half" specifies a point or event occurring within that period. For example, "The company made a profit "for the first half" of the year", versus "The goal was scored "in the first half" of the match."