is the first one

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is the first one" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is the initial item in a sequence or list. Example: "This book is the first one in the series, setting the stage for the entire story."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

This is the first one," he said.

The Washington Post

"Yeah, it is," the first one said.

The New York Times

This, finally, is the first one.

The Guardian - Books

This is the first one that's up for question".

The New York Times

But Florence's face is the first one we see.

The New York Times

Poppa Neutrino is the first one that came to him.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

This is the third one.

Yale University

Firm C is the second one, and Firm B is the third one.

Complex & Intelligent Systems

Be the first one on your block.

Huffington Post

"He's the first one here.

The New York Times - Sports

It's the first one.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is the first one" to clearly indicate the initial item in a sequence, ensuring your audience understands the order or progression you're presenting.

Common error

Avoid using "is the first one" when a more specific term like "initial", "primary", or "inaugural" might provide a clearer and more precise meaning, especially in formal writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is the first one" primarily functions as a descriptor, indicating the initial element within a sequence, group, or category. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

38%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is the first one" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase that functions to pinpoint the initial element in a sequence. Ludwig indicates that it is frequently found in news, science, and academic domains, with a neutral register suitable for various contexts. While versatile, it may benefit from more precise alternatives like "initial" or "inaugural" in highly formal writing. The phrase scores highly for source authority and consistency of use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is the initial instance

Highlights that this is the very first occurrence.

starts the sequence

Highlights the initiation of a defined order or series.

marks the beginning

Focuses on the commencement or initiation aspect.

represents the starting point

Emphasizes the origin or initial stage of something.

is the premier edition

Suggests the first of a set, often used for publications or events.

is the inaugural version

Implies a formal or significant launch of a product or system.

signals the outset

Indicates the commencement or initial phase of an activity.

is where it all began

Focuses on the origin or the place of commencement.

kicks things off

An informal expression denoting the start of an event or process.

is at the forefront

Suggests being in a leading or pioneering position.

FAQs

How can I use "is the first one" in a sentence?

You can use "is the first one" to identify the initial item in a series, such as: "This book "is the first one" in the series." or "He "is the first one" to arrive."

What phrases are similar to "is the first one"?

Similar phrases include "is the initial instance", "marks the beginning", or "represents the starting point", depending on the desired emphasis.

When is it appropriate to use "is the first one"?

It's appropriate when you want to explicitly state that something is the initial element in a sequence or the earliest example of something. Ensure the context is clear so it's obvious what "first" refers to.

Is "is the first one" formal or informal?

"Is the first one" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal writing, more precise language may be preferred such as "the inaugural version" or "the premier edition".