he is first

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "he is first" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone is in the leading position or has priority in a particular context, such as a competition or ranking. Example: "In the race, he is first, demonstrating his exceptional speed and training."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

He is first vice-pres.

The New Yorker

He is, first and last, a European.

The New York Times - Books

"He is first of all a person.

The New York Times

He is first and foremost a military man.

The Economist

He is, first and foremost, a defensive-minded coach.

The New York Times - Sports

He is, first and foremost, a public figure.

The Guardian - Books

At the City training fields, he is first to walk forward, to offer his handshake.

The New York Times - Sports

Anyone who has followed Wenger's career knows that he is first and foremost a style guru.

The New York Times - Sports

He is everybody, ourselves included, and for us He is, first and foremost, us.

The New Yorker

He is first in baseball with 11 triples and third in stolen bases with 20.

The New York Times - Sports

But, because he is first and foremost a poet, it is the words that grip you.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "he is first", ensure the context clearly indicates what he is first in, whether it's a competition, a ranking, or a sequence of events. For example, "He is first in line" or "He is first in his class."

Common error

Avoid using "he is first" without specifying the context. For example, saying "he is first" without indicating 'first in what' can create ambiguity. Always clarify the specific area where he holds the first position.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "he is first" functions primarily as a descriptive statement indicating a position, order, or characteristic. It's a common way to express that someone holds a leading role or acts as an initial participant. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "he is first" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression in the English language, as validated by Ludwig AI. Its primary function is to denote an individual's leading position, order, or characteristic in a specific context. While versatile across various settings, it's crucial to provide clear contextual information to avoid ambiguity. Common in news and media sources, the phrase maintains a generally neutral register, suitable for both formal and informal communication. Alternatives like "he ranks highest" or "he takes the lead" can offer similar meanings, contingent on the intended nuance. In summary, "he is first" is a practical and adaptable phrase, readily employed to convey precedence and prominence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

he is number one

Directly states his top position.

he tops the list

Focuses on the position at the top of a list.

he ranks highest

Focuses on hierarchical position; emphasizes ranking order rather than sequence or timing.

he takes the lead

Highlights the action of assuming a leadership position.

he is the foremost

Highlights prominence or superiority.

he is the leader

Implies that he guides or directs others.

he is preeminent

Stresses superiority in rank, dignity, or importance.

he is in the forefront

Suggests he is at the leading edge or most active part of something.

he precedes others

Highlights temporal priority; coming before others in time or order.

he is the pioneer

Emphasizes initiating or developing something.

FAQs

How can I use "he is first" in a sentence?

Use "he is first" to indicate that someone is in the leading position, has priority, or is the initial actor in a specific context. For example, "He is first to arrive at the meeting."

What can I say instead of "he is first"?

You can use alternatives like "he ranks highest", "he takes the lead", or "he is the leader" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "he is first" or "he is the first"?

Both phrases can be correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "He is first" generally indicates a position or ranking, while "He is the first" often refers to being the initial person or entity. For example, "He is first in line" vs. "He is the first person to land on Mars".

What's the difference between "he is first" and "he is primarily"?

"He is first" indicates order or ranking, while "he is primarily" emphasizes the main aspect or characteristic of someone. For example, "He is first to volunteer" vs. "He is primarily a musician".