initial feeling

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "initial feeling" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the first emotional response or impression someone has about a situation or event. Example: "My initial feeling about the proposal was one of skepticism, but I later saw its potential."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

My initial feeling is that I feel remorse.

BBC

It is interesting in that is poses the question of if people like the initial feeling of discomfort that they feel before they stick their hand in the blender, followed by the pleasant massage.

Cornell University

While you may experience an initial feeling of relief, you may still feel negatively towards your nose after the surgery.

WikiHow

Muscles cease to tense up and neck, back, arm, hand, etc., muscles feel looser and without pain after an initial feeling of stiffness and discomfort.

WikiHow

"It's just that initial feeling," he continued.

The New Yorker

"The initial feeling was to send it back," he said.

The New York Times - Arts

"It is good to have my initial feeling confirmed".

The New York Times

My initial feeling was of shock and devastation.

Independent

Today it's difficult to remember that initial feeling.

The New York Times

MORE REGRETS My initial feeling is, be more blasé about it.

The New York Times

My initial feeling is that this project is going to be … challenging.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a complex situation, use "initial feeling" to set the stage for how your perspective evolved over time. This adds depth and nuance to your narrative.

Common error

Avoid presenting your "initial feeling" as the definitive truth. Acknowledge that first impressions can be incomplete or misleading, and that further consideration may lead to a different conclusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "initial feeling" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used to describe the first emotional response or impression someone has about a situation or event.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

24%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Academia

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "initial feeling" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a first emotional response or impression. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. Occurring frequently in news, media, and scientific contexts, it serves to set the stage for evolving perspectives. While alternatives like "first impression" or "gut reaction" can be used, "initial feeling" specifically emphasizes the emotional aspect of that first take. Remember to acknowledge that these initial feelings are not necessarily definitive judgements and can change with further understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

first impression

Focuses on the cognitive aspect of forming an opinion at the beginning.

immediate reaction

Highlights the quick, spontaneous response to something.

gut reaction

Emphasizes an instinctive, emotional response.

first thought

Stresses the very first mental consideration.

preliminary emotion

Indicates an emotion experienced at the start, often before more complex feelings.

early sentiment

Implies a more thoughtful or considered initial emotion.

primary sensation

Refers to a sensory experience that occurs first.

initial response

A broader term applicable to any kind of reaction, not just emotional.

original perception

Emphasizes how something was understood at the outset.

opening sentiment

Describes a feeling that initiates a longer or deeper emotional process.

FAQs

How can I use "initial feeling" in a sentence?

You can use "initial feeling" to describe your first emotional response or impression to something. For example, "My initial feeling was one of surprise when I heard the news."

What phrases are similar to "initial feeling"?

You can use alternatives such as "first impression", "gut reaction", or "immediate reaction", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "initial feeling" in formal writing?

Yes, "initial feeling" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing, as it is a common and well-understood phrase. The level of formality depends more on the surrounding language and context.

How does "initial feeling" differ from "first impression"?

While both relate to early perceptions, "initial feeling" often emphasizes the emotional response, whereas "first impression" might focus more on the cognitive assessment of a person or situation.