is first-rate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is first-rate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something of excellent quality or high standard. Example: "The restaurant's service is first-rate, making it a favorite among locals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

"Gerald is first-rate.

The New Yorker

Service is first-rate.

The New York Times

CNN's website is first-rate.

The Economist

.," is first-rate.

The New York Times

The attention they get is first-rate.

The Economist

The cast is first-rate, too.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

The sound is first rate.

The New York Times

Either way, Morris Lessmore is first rate.

The New York Times - Tech

The performing is first rate.

The New York Times - Arts

The leather is first rate.

The New York Times

The writing is first rate".

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is first-rate" to describe something that exceeds expectations in terms of quality, performance, or skill. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "is first-rate" excessively in highly formal or academic writing where more precise or nuanced language might be more appropriate. Vary your vocabulary to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is first-rate" functions as an adjective phrase, primarily used as a predicate adjective. It modifies a noun or pronoun by ascribing a quality of exceptional excellence. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

97%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is first-rate" is a commonly used adjective phrase that denotes something of exceptional quality or performance. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's considered grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, especially in news and media. While alternatives like "is top-notch" or "is excellent" exist, "is first-rate" maintains a neutral to slightly professional tone. When employing this phrase, consider the formality of your writing and avoid overuse in highly academic settings for stylistic diversity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is top-notch

Replaces "first-rate" with a more informal term indicating high quality.

is excellent

A more general and widely applicable term for describing something of very high quality.

is outstanding

Suggests that something is noticeably better than average.

is superb

A slightly more formal and sophisticated way of saying something is excellent.

is exceptional

Highlights that something is an exception to the norm, implying it's unusually good.

is world-class

Indicates that something is among the best in the world.

is second to none

Emphasizes that something is unparalleled and of the highest possible standard.

is of the highest caliber

A formal expression indicating superior quality or ability.

is state-of-the-art

Implies that something is the most advanced or modern of its kind.

is premium

Suggests superior quality and often higher cost.

FAQs

How can I use "is first-rate" in a sentence?

You can use "is first-rate" to describe something of excellent quality. For example, "The service at the hotel "is first-rate", making it a popular choice for travelers".

What are some alternatives to "is first-rate"?

Alternatives include phrases like "is top-notch", "is excellent", or "is outstanding", depending on the desired level of formality and nuance.

Is "is first-rate" appropriate for formal writing?

While "is first-rate" is generally acceptable, more formal alternatives like "is exceptional" or "is superb" might be more suitable in highly formal or academic contexts.

What does "is first-rate" typically describe?

"Is first-rate" typically describes services, performances, products, or qualities that are of exceptionally high standard or quality.