in a first time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in a first time" is not correct in standard written English.
The correct expression is "at first" or "for the first time." Example: "At first, I was hesitant to join the project, but I eventually saw its value."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Solving this problem requires, in a first time, the development and analysis of its dynamic model in order to design a control law.

IFAC-PapersOnLine

In a first time, a classical materials selection method is applied to the problem, showing the most suitable material would be an aluminium alloy reinforced by pitch carbon fibres.

Case Studies in Thermal Engineering

Honchar, like he did in a first time trial in Stage 7, dominated the field over the 35.4-mile course from Le Creusot to Montceau-les-Mines, finishing in 1 hour, 7 minutes, 46 seconds.

The New York Times

This approach consists of a two-step calculation with, in a first time, the determination of bubble size distributions using coalescence and break-up laws, and in a second time, the implementation of this distribution in a multiple gas phase Euler Euler model.

Chemical Engineering Science

In a first time slot, each source node broadcasts its information to both relays and destination.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

We considered access to the β3-amino acids 28 from activated aziridines 25 preparing in a first time the N-protected β-aminonitriles 27.

International Journal of Energy and Environmental Engineering

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Thirty-two states now require that the devices be installed in a first-time offender's vehicle.

The Washington Post

And there've been some firsts around here as well, as in a first-time winner.

The New Yorker

Ran fairly well in a first-time tongue tie on his belated reappearance.

The Guardian - Sport

An oppressive air of reverence can stir resistance in a first-time visitor.

The New York Times - Arts

It was an incredible leap of faith for a Hollywood star to put her trust in a first-time director.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Always use the correct phrase "for the first time" or "at first" instead of "in a first time" to maintain grammatical accuracy and clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "in a first time" because it's not standard English. Using it can make your writing seem unpolished. Instead, opt for "for the first time" or "at first", which are grammatically correct and widely accepted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in a first time" functions as an adverbial modifier, intending to specify when something occurs initially. However, it's grammatically non-standard. Ludwig AI highlights that it is not the correct way to say it.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

63%

News & Media

31%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

While the phrase "in a first time" appears in various contexts, including science and news, it's grammatically incorrect. Ludwig AI advises using "for the first time" or "at first" instead, to ensure clarity and accuracy in your writing. Remember that while the phrase may be common, adhering to correct grammar enhances your credibility. It is also advisable to replace this phrase by other alternatives like "initially" or "in the beginning".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for the first time

This is the grammatically correct and most direct replacement.

at first

This alternative emphasizes the beginning of a sequence or process.

initially

Similar to 'at first', but more formal.

in the beginning

Focuses on the earliest stage of something.

to begin with

Highlights the starting point before further actions or events.

as a first step

Emphasizes the initial action in a series of steps.

in the early stages

Broader term, referring to the initial phase of development.

on its first iteration

Describes the initial version or attempt of something.

as an initial measure

Highlights the first action taken to address a situation.

in the primary phase

Refers to the initial period of a process or project.

FAQs

What's the correct way to say "in a first time"?

The correct alternatives are "for the first time" or "at first". The phrase "in a first time" is grammatically incorrect.

How do I use "for the first time" in a sentence?

Use "for the first time" to indicate that something is happening or being experienced initially. Example: "I saw snow for the first time last winter."

Is "in a first time" ever correct?

No, "in a first time" is not considered correct in standard English. Use "at first" or "for the first time" instead.

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

"At first" indicates an initial reaction or state that changes later, while "for the first time" simply means something is happening or being experienced initially.