for the first while

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for the first while" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to refer to the time following an initial occurrence or to state that something will be or stay true for a period of time. For example, "I'm going to take a break from work for the first while, and then I'll continue on with my project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Mr. Gates, the first defense secretary to work for two presidents of different parties, said he managed the transition from Mr. Bush to Mr. Obama by using a lesson he had learned through various changes of directors at the C.I.A.: "As a holdover, for the first while, don't talk too much".

The New York Times

There are both direct or extensional, and indirect or intensional contexts, and reference matters for the first while sense is fundamental for the second.

SEP

"However, Frazer Wright has done really well to get across his man for the first, while Ando's finish is just quality".

BBC

Thus, the difference between strategies 1 and 2 is that DC is set as constant for the first, while for the latter, DC is varied to achieve constant inspiratory flow.

Intensive Care Medicine Experimental

The criticism is only partly legitimate: from the second lesson in the Course, Comte carefully distinguishes between the doctrinal and the historical study of science, opting for the first while leaving the second for the lessons in sociology.

SEP

One participant shared how, "for the first while I just hid.

BMC Public Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

James rested comfortably on the bench for the fourth, while minor skirmishes broke out in some parts of the arena.

The New York Times - Sports

Wright described his side as "shambolic" for the first goal and "totally disorganised" for the second while absolving his defence of blame.

BBC

The findings for Greece are somewhat different, because a positive coefficient for the first equation is followed by a negative for the second, while the last two are positive again.

Health Economics Review

Biggs went the length of the field for his first before a dazzling solo run for the second, while a last-minute dash down the left touchline - twice collecting his own kick ahead - sealed a superb hat-trick.

BBC

She visited for the first time while working on the book.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "for the first while", ensure it's clear what event marks the beginning of that 'while'. This provides context and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid assuming "for the first while" implies a very short time. While it often suggests a limited duration, the exact length is context-dependent. Be specific if a precise timeframe is important.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for the first while" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the duration immediately following an initial event or action. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

43%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "for the first while" is a grammatically correct and acceptable way to denote the period immediately following an initial event. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While its frequency is uncommon, its usage spans across diverse contexts like news, science, and informal writing. It is important to note that although it is neutral, the time frame isn't clearly defined and depends on context, according to analysis. To broaden your linguistic toolkit, consider alternatives like "initially" or "at the start".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for the initial period

This alternative is structurally similar but uses "period" instead of "while".

for a short time initially

This alternative explicitly states the brevity of the initial period.

for a brief period at first

This variant adds emphasis on the limited duration of the initial time.

in the beginning

This phrase provides a more general way to express the initial timeframe.

at the start

This alternative uses simpler vocabulary to convey the initial period.

in the early stages

This phrase focuses on the developmental aspect of the initial timeframe.

initially

This alternative is a single word instead of a phrase to describe the beginning phase.

during the initial phase

This option adopts a more formal tone, suitable for technical or official contexts.

for the preliminary duration

This uses more formal vocabulary to indicate a starting duration.

at the dawning

This alternative is a more literary or figurative way to express the beginning.

FAQs

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

You can use "for the first while" to describe an initial period after something begins. For instance, "For the first while, I just hid," indicating a period of hiding after an event.

What are some alternatives to "for the first while"?

Alternatives include "initially", "at the start", or "in the beginning". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is "for the first while" formal or informal?

"For the first while" is generally considered neutral to slightly informal. More formal alternatives include "during the initial phase" or "for the initial period".

How long is "the first while"?

The duration of "the first while" is subjective and depends on context. It suggests a limited period, but the exact length could range from a few moments to several weeks or months, depending on what's being described.