it was first used

USAGE SUMMARY

"it was first used" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe when an object, concept, or idea was first introduced into the public discourse. For example, "The technology was first used during the Industrial Revolution in the 18th century."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In 1979 it was first used by the club to house its young footballers who originated from outside of Barcelona.

Wikipedia

A relatively recent invention (it was first used in the 2010 election), they've proved to be pretty useful in throwing up a dark horse.

Vice

It was first used by the French army in 1896.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It was first used in the invasion of Sicily.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It was first used to tremendous effect by John Hersey in "Hiroshima" in 1946.

The New York Times - Books

(Possibly, it was first used in one of the lost plays of Aristophanes).

The New York Times

The definition of PSTD has changed since it was first used.

The New York Times - Arts

It was first used in Mr. Harrison's work "La Koro Sutro" in 1972.

The New York Times - Arts

It was first used in a motor scooter called the Juno M85 in 1962.

The New York Times

It was first used as a warehouse for the potato farms that were in the area.

The New York Times

It was first used for a terrorist attack during the November 2015 Paris attacks.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it was first used", ensure that the context clearly identifies what "it" refers to, preventing ambiguity for the reader. Be specific about the subject's initial application to enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "it was first used" without clearly specifying what "it" refers to. This can lead to confusion. Always ensure the subject is clearly defined in the preceding sentence or clause.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was first used" functions as a temporal marker indicating the initial instance of the utilization of something. Ludwig AI confirms its general usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Encyclopedias

28%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it was first used" serves as a temporal marker, pinpointing the initial application or introduction of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used across diverse contexts such as news, encyclopedias, and scientific publications. Its purpose is to provide historical context and establish precedence. The register is generally neutral, making it suitable for both formal and informal settings. To ensure clarity, it's crucial to specify what "it" refers to. Remember, while alternatives like "it was initially employed" or "it was originally applied" exist, choosing the most appropriate phrasing depends on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was initially employed

Replaces "first used" with "initially employed", emphasizing the beginning of its use.

it was originally applied

Substitutes "first used" with "originally applied", highlighting the original context of its use.

it debuted in

Replaces the entire phrase with a simpler, more direct statement about the debut of something.

it saw its first application

Rephrases the sentence structure to emphasize the concept of application.

the inception of its use was

Uses a more formal tone to denote the start of usage.

its use began with

Focuses on the beginning of use, specifying the initial instance.

it was pioneered in

Emphasizes the innovative aspect of the initial use.

it commenced its usage

Replaces "first used" with a more formal "commenced its usage".

the first instance of its use was

Highlights that it was the initial case of using something.

it started being used

Emphasizes the beginning of use.

FAQs

How can I use "it was first used" in a sentence?

Use "it was first used" to indicate the initial application or introduction of something. For example, "The technology was first used in the medical field".

What are some alternatives to saying "it was first used"?

You can use alternatives like "it was initially employed", "it was originally applied", or "it saw its first application".

What's the difference between "it was first used" and "it was initially implemented"?

"It was first used" generally refers to the earliest known instance of something being utilized. "It was initially implemented", on the other hand, suggests the beginning stage of putting a plan or system into effect.

Is it correct to say "it was first used in" or "it was first used on"?

Both can be correct depending on the context. "It was first used in" is typically used for fields, areas, or systems (e.g., "It was first used in medicine"). "It was first used on" is used for surfaces, objects, or specific events (e.g., "It was first used on the cover of the album").