in the first item

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in the first item" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the initial point or element in a list or sequence. Example: "In the first item, we discussed the importance of time management in achieving goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

In the first item, a split screen was used to visualize simultaneity of actions.

Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology

Most children in both age groups understood the split screen in the first item.

Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology

The next day, I brought in the first item for my bookcase, a small vase.

The New York Times

What goes on in the creator's mind is already contained in the first item.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In the first item, she wrote that last spring a fraternity printed T-shirts showing a woman being roasted like a pig on a spit but that those responsible were not disciplined.

The New York Times

The same results were observed in the first item of the bully scale.

Psicologia: Reflexão e Crítica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

It then checks to see if the first item in the buffer is a negative sign.

Cornell University

As shown in (9), the first item depicts the upward arrow line in Fig. 4b, and the second item depicts the downward arrow line.

Journal of Modern Power Systems and Clean Energy

In the first items all the benefits and drawbacks from round 1 were used as statement items to gain consensus on the attitudes of respondents concerning online and blended therapy.

BMC Psychiatry

For political progressives in the US, the first item on a new agenda could be how to reconstitute the Peacekeeping Institute.

The Guardian

In this equation, the first item describes the shot noise and the second item represents the thermal noise.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in the first item", ensure it's clear what list or sequence you're referring to. Provide context to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "in the first item" without clearly defining what constitutes the 'item'. Be explicit about whether you're referring to a list, a series of steps, or something else.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the first item" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause. It indicates the position or order of something within a sequence or list. As Ludwig AI suggests, it is a grammatically correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

23%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in the first item" is a versatile and grammatically sound way to refer to the initial element in a sequence or list. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and commonly used across various writing styles. While direct replacements like "initially" exist, the phrase offers specific clarity in defining where you are in a list. When using "in the first item", provide sufficient context to avoid ambiguity. The analysis of source categories reveals that it frequently appears in scientific articles, news reports, and academic papers, establishing its relevance across varied fields. By minding its communicative function, register appropriateness, and usage patterns, you can use the phrase "in the first item" effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

firstly

A formal adverb used to introduce the first point in a list.

as a first step

Emphasizes that the item is the first action taken in a series.

to begin with

A more conversational phrase emphasizing the act of starting a sequence or list.

to start with

Similar to "to begin with", but can also imply a provisional arrangement.

initially

A single word adverb replacing the entire phrase, implying the beginning or start.

at the outset

Implies the very beginning of a process or activity.

in the initial stage

Highlights that the item is part of the early phase of something.

at first

Indicates an initial observation or action, possibly contrasting with later developments.

in the beginning

Highlights the temporal aspect of starting something.

primarily

Focuses on the main or most important element at the start.

FAQs

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

Use "in the first item" to refer to the initial element in a sequence, list, or process. For example, "In the first item of the agenda, we will discuss budget allocation".

What can I say instead of "in the first item"?

You can use alternatives like "initially", "to begin with", or "as a first step", depending on the specific context.

Is there a more formal way to say "in the first item"?

Yes, more formal alternatives include "firstly" or "at the outset". These options are suitable for academic or professional writing.

What's the difference between "in the first item" and "at first"?

"In the first item" specifies a particular element in a sequence, while "at first" indicates an initial observation or state that may change later. For example, "In the first item, we will review the budget" vs. "At first, I didn't understand the instructions".