for the first one

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for the first one" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the initial item in a sequence or list, often in comparison or selection contexts. Example: "For the first one, I would recommend choosing the blue option as it stands out the most."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

I'd certainly sign up for the first one, bring it on.

Forbes

Well, for the first one we really focused on history, history that is untold.

Huffington Post

One example for the first one is a research project on flexible power production in biomass CHP plants.

Energy, Sustainability and Society

For the first one or two months the worker is just training on scraps".

The Guardian - Business

For the first one, the game was the entire thing.

The New York Times - Sports

You've had an entire life for the first one".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

For the first one, two different states were tested: hardened and unhardened.

Robotics and Computer-Integrated Manufacturing

The link for the first one, by Goody and Watt, that means that it is online.

University of California, Berkeley

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

After sitting out the Ashes series, Finn was also overlooked for the first one-day international in Melbourne.

BBC

After a rapid response for the first one-month period, the reduction rate appeared to have slowed or remained thereafter.

BioMed Research International

Hey, the wealthy have not even said "thanks" for the first one.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting a series of options or steps, use "for the first one" to clearly indicate the initial element. This helps maintain clarity and logical flow.

Common error

Avoid using "for the first one" when you should be using an ordinal number such as "firstly" or "in the first place" to introduce the first point in a structured argument or list. Ensure the context warrants a reference to a specific item rather than a general ordering.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for the first one" functions as a prepositional phrase that typically serves as an adverbial modifier. It specifies which item is being referred to in a sequence or list. Ludwig examples show it clarifying initial steps or choices.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

37%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "for the first one" is a grammatically correct and frequently used prepositional phrase. As Ludwig AI confirms, it serves to identify the initial item in a sequence or list, clarifying the starting point in various contexts, from news reports to scientific papers. While alternatives such as "initially" or "firstly" exist, "for the first one" maintains a versatile presence, particularly within News & Media and Science. Understanding common errors, such as confusing it with ordinal indicators, enhances its effective application in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

firstly

This is a formal adverb used to introduce the first point in a list or argument.

in the first instance

This alternative emphasizes the priority or order of actions, suggesting a logical progression.

at first

Indicates what happened or was true at the start, often contrasted with later developments.

to begin with

This phrase highlights the commencement of a series of actions or considerations.

as a first step

Highlights the beginning action in a process, emphasizing its role as an initial move.

to start with

A general way to indicate the initial point or action in a discussion or process.

initially

This single-word adverb provides a concise alternative, focusing on the beginning stage or action.

at the outset

Focuses on the very start or commencement of something, typically implying a more formal or structured context.

for starters

This phrase is more informal and suggests an introductory remark or action.

in the beginning

Emphasizes the temporal aspect of starting something.

FAQs

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

You can use "for the first one" to refer to the initial item in a series or list. For example, "I tried two different recipes; "for the first one", I used olive oil, and for the second, I used butter."

What are some alternatives to using "for the first one"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "initially", "to begin with", or "in the first instance" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it more appropriate to use "firstly" or "for the first one"?

Use "firstly" when introducing the first point in a structured list or argument. Use "for the first one" when referring to a specific item within a sequence or set of options. Context is key.

What's the difference between "at first" and ""for the first one""?

"At first" generally refers to something that was true or happened in the beginning but may have changed later. "For the first one" refers specifically to the initial item in a sequence or selection, without necessarily implying a change over time.