in first position

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in first position" can be used in written English and is correct grammatically.
It is typically used to refer to the beginning or initial part of a sentence or phrase. It can be used in various contexts, such as writing, speaking, or even in music or sports. Example: "In first position, the subject of the sentence is usually the doer of the action."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The withdrawal of Oats leaves Perpetual Loyal in first position.

The Guardian - Sport

His thick upper body was positioned forward while his feet followed in first position.

The New York Times - Magazine

Snyder read with his heels clicked together in back, a dancer in first position.

The New Yorker

"I got out to Turn 1 in first position, and that was the most important thing".

The New York Times - Sports

The loan is in first position in the line of creditors waiting to be repaid by the ailing company.

The New York Times

Google, Microsoft, Apple, Facebook: I made it a priority for us to be in first position with them," he says.

The Guardian

As they stood in first position, a snap in their torsos sent their heads backward with a lurch.

The New York Times - Arts

White was not in Zurich, and since losing his sight some years ago was not able to watch Pavey cross the line in first position on Tuesday evening.

The Guardian - Sport

The cast -- in this scene, 14 girls and 4 boys -- begins in first position, bras bas (their arms low and rounded), with a plie.

The New York Times - Arts

Manuel Pellegrini said: "It is very important to qualify for the next stage, now we will try to qualify in first position.

The Guardian - Sport

Though the parents and children featured in "First Position" generally agreed quickly to participate, it took more time for Ms. Kargman's young charges to open up.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in first position" in a series, ensure clarity by specifying what is in the second, third, etc., positions.

Common error

Avoid using "in first position" when a simpler word like "first" suffices. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound stilted or overly formal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in first position" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb. It describes the state or location of something or someone. Ludwig AI confirms the grammatical correctness and general applicability of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Wiki

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in first position" is a versatile expression used to denote being in the leading spot, the initial stage, or a fundamental position. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. While "in first place" might be more common in casual contexts, "in first position" finds its niche in more formal or technical settings like ballet or finance. Alternatives such as "leading the way" or "at the forefront" can be used to convey similar meanings, depending on the specific context. It's crucial to use the phrase appropriately to avoid sounding stilted and to maintain clarity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the lead

Highlights being ahead of others, particularly in a competition or race.

at the forefront

Emphasizes being at the very front or most advanced stage.

leading the way

Focuses on the action of leading, shifting from a static position to a dynamic role.

in pole position

A racing term for the leading starting position.

at the top

Indicates being in the highest rank or position.

in the primary spot

Highlights being the most important or significant.

in the vanguard

Stresses being in the leading position, especially in a movement or development.

at the helm

Suggests being in control or in charge, particularly of an organization or project.

taking the initiative

Focuses on proactively starting or leading an action.

in the driver's seat

Implies being in control and making decisions.

FAQs

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

You can use "in first position" to indicate the leading spot in a race, the initial stance in ballet, or the primary ranking in a list. For example, "The athlete finished "in first place"" or "Start "in the initial position" before executing the ballet routine".

What are some alternatives to using "in first position"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "leading the way", "at the forefront", or "in the lead" to convey a similar meaning. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to emphasize.

Is it more appropriate to say "in first place" or "in first position"?

While both phrases are grammatically correct, ""in first place"" is more commonly used, especially in informal contexts or when referring to rankings in sports. "In first position" can sound slightly more formal and is often used in specific technical contexts, such as ballet or finance.

What does "in first position" mean in ballet?

In ballet, "in first position" refers to a specific stance where the heels are together and the toes are turned outward, forming a line. It is a fundamental starting point for many ballet movements.