in first order

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in first order" is not commonly used in written English and may be unclear without context.
It could be used in contexts discussing sequences, priorities, or levels of importance, but it is better to clarify the intended meaning. Example: "In first order, we need to address the budget issues before moving on to other concerns."

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

We are simply not seeing women in first order jobs, or working for big corporations".

Independent

results in (first order) Peano Arithmetic (PA).

SEP

Char combustion proceeded in first order with respect to oxygen.

Chemical Engineering Science

Central algebraic notions in first order logic are ultraproducts, elementary equivalence, and elementary and pseudoelementary varieties.

SEP

The whole parameter space of relevant coupling constants is studied in first order anisotropy approximation.

Journal of Magnetism and Magnetic Materials

(6) and (8) obtained in Ref. [30] in first order of 1 / Z.

EPJ Quantum Technology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

Assume this theory could be formalized in first-order logic.

SEP

It is now encoded in first-order possibilistic logic.

Artificial Intelligence

In it, more quantifier dependencies and independencies can be expressed than in first-order logic.

SEP

In first-order languages, there are some things we can say, and some that we cannot.

SEP

For a study of recursive definability in first-order languages, see Moschovakis 1974.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in first order", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you mean 'priority' or 'sequence'. If ambiguity persists, consider using more explicit alternatives such as "primarily" or "first and foremost".

Common error

Avoid using "in first order" without clarifying whether you mean 'priority' or 'sequence'. Overuse can lead to confusion. Instead, opt for more specific phrases that leave no room for misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in first order" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to specify order or priority. Ludwig AI highlights that the context is key to understanding its specific meaning. Examples from Ludwig show its application in both scientific and general contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

72%

News & Media

14%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in first order" is used to indicate sequence, priority, or level of importance. While grammatically acceptable, Ludwig AI points out that its meaning can be ambiguous without sufficient context. It appears more frequently in scientific and formal settings, suggesting a relatively formal register. For clearer communication, especially in general contexts, alternatives like "primarily" or "first and foremost" may be preferable. Overall, ensure clarity when using "in first order" to avoid potential misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

first and foremost

Emphasizes the initial and most important consideration, combining sequence and significance.

primarily

Focuses on the main aspect or concern, shifting the emphasis from sequence to importance.

firstly

Explicitly indicates the first item in a list, keeping the focus on enumeration.

as a priority

Highlights the importance of something needing immediate attention, altering the emphasis from sequence to urgency.

at the outset

Highlights the commencement of an endeavor, emphasizing the initial perspective or action.

principally

Stresses the core or chief element, pivoting from order to the most fundamental part.

to begin with

Indicates the starting point in a series of actions or considerations, focusing on initiation rather than order of importance.

in the initial stage

Pinpoints the beginning phase of a process, stressing the temporal aspect of the start.

initially

Simply denotes what comes at the start, lacking the emphasis on importance.

in the beginning

Implies the very start of something, not necessarily a prioritized action.

FAQs

What does "in first order" mean?

The phrase "in first order" can refer either to priority or sequence. Its precise meaning depends on the context in which it's used. For clarity, consider using alternatives like "primarily" or "first and foremost".

How can I use "in first order" in a sentence?

You can use "in first order" to indicate either the first item in a sequence or something of primary importance. For instance, "In first order, we need to address the budget issues." However, be mindful that the phrase might be ambiguous and using a clearer alternative is preferable.

What can I say instead of "in first order" to indicate priority?

To indicate priority, you can use alternatives such as "primarily", "as a priority", or "first and foremost".

Is "in first order" grammatically correct?

While not grammatically incorrect, "in first order" can be ambiguous and is less common than alternatives. Ludwig AI suggests it may be unclear without context, so it's best to consider using more explicit phrasing.