in the first case

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in the first case" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to introduce the first point or argument in a discussion. For example: "In the first case, we must consider the environmental impacts of this policy before deciding whether to implement it."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He has none in the first case.

Harvard University

Charged in the first case were Maj.

The New York Times

and - 38m. in the first case, + 27m.

Nature

In the first case, silver nanoparticles resulted.

Polymer

In the first case study, the practitioner initiated the interaction.

University of California, Berkeley

In the first case, Leimer v. State Mut.

Cornell University

In the first case, the links are pretty straightforward.

The New York Times - Books

But Musk's pay is far higher in the first case.

Harvard Business Review

In the first case the prisoners are still prisoners.

The New York Times - Arts

In the first case, autobiography is a largely fraudulent exercise.

The Guardian - Books

In the first case ECOWAS rose to the challenge.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting multiple scenarios or arguments, use "in the first case" to clearly introduce the initial point, setting a structured framework for your discussion.

Common error

Avoid using "in the first case" when only one scenario is being discussed. This phrase implies that additional cases will follow, so ensure a second case is presented.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the first case" functions as an adverbial phrase, introducing the initial situation, scenario, or condition being considered. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its role in structuring arguments or comparisons by presenting the first element.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

25%

News & Media

33%

Science

42%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "in the first case" serves as a useful adverbial phrase for introducing the initial element in a comparison or a series of arguments. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently used across a variety of contexts including academia, news media, and scientific writing. When using the phrase, remember to set up a structured framework for your writing by introducing subsequent cases. Its widespread use makes it a versatile addition to your writing toolkit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the initial scenario

More explicit and formal reference to the first set of circumstances.

in the primary instance

A more formal and emphatic way of referring to the first occurrence.

to begin with

Emphasizes starting the discussion or argument with the specified point.

to start with

Indicates the initial element to consider or address.

initially

Focuses on the temporal aspect of the first situation.

at first

Highlights the condition or state at the commencement of events.

at the outset

Refers to the very beginning or commencement of a situation.

firstly

Directly indicates the first point in a list or series of arguments.

in the beginning

Emphasizes the temporal start of an event or condition.

as a first step

Highlights the action as the initial measure in a process.

FAQs

How can I use "in the first case" in a sentence?

Use "in the first case" to introduce the initial scenario or condition when presenting a comparison or a series of possibilities. For example: "In the first case, we'll analyze the environmental impact; in the second, the economic benefits."

What is a good alternative to "in the first case"?

Alternatives include "initially", "to begin with", or "at first", depending on the context.

Is it necessary to always follow "in the first case" with "in the second case"?

While not strictly mandatory, following "in the first case" with "in the second case" provides clarity and signals a structured comparison. Omitting the subsequent cases can make the initial statement feel incomplete.

Can I use "in the first case" in formal writing?

Yes, "in the first case" is appropriate for formal writing. It's a clear and professional way to introduce the first of multiple scenarios or arguments.