make first contact with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make first contact with" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts involving initiating communication or interaction, often in a formal or significant manner, such as in diplomacy or science fiction. Example: "The scientists were excited to make first contact with the extraterrestrial civilization they had been searching for."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

Jobseekers are also increasingly using online profiles to find jobs, with 34% using Twitter to make first contact with employers.

The Guardian

Likewise, jobseekers are increasingly using online profiles to find jobs, with 34% using Twitter to make first contact with employers.

The Guardian

Then our intrepid private eyes, our Sam Spades in skinny jeans, make first contact with the catfish.

The New Yorker

I feel it is a good place to make first contact with the labor movement and a suitable place for students who want to learn while working.

Cornell University

The former head of Funai, Sydney Possuelo, knew this from first-hand experience as a sertanista – one of the adventurers whose job it was in the 1970s and 1980s to make first contact with remote communities in the Amazon.

The Guardian

But even with all the money the city has made, there are no new plans for the people who will, on its behalf, make first contact with the garbage.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

Four Corners made first contact with Lucas in late May 2012.

The Guardian

He told of the epidemics that decimated the tribe in the early 1600's, when they made first contact with Dutch fur traders and other Europeans.

The New York Times

Ms. Kennedy wants her role to be limited to making first contact with donors, and to let others work out the technicalities of transactions, friends say.

The New York Times

The phone call was broadcast on ITV News today, a day after her husband made first contact with the outside world via the broadcaster.

Independent

Plus Mrs HJ is coming out to join him, we see in the trailer – possibly to put a stop to any ideas her handsome fella might be having of making (first) contact with the girls from the beach.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "make first contact with" in professional contexts, consider the audience and adjust the tone accordingly. In formal settings, prioritize clarity and respect.

Common error

Avoid using "make first contact with" in overly casual or informal situations. Simpler alternatives like "meet" or "reach out to" are often more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make first contact with" functions as a verbal phrase, indicating the act of initiating communication or interaction. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Examples show its use in both literal and figurative senses.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

36%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Academia

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "make first contact with" is a grammatically sound and usable expression that describes initiating communication or interaction. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and diverse application. While not overly common, appearing primarily in News & Media and Science contexts, it's versatile enough for both literal and figurative scenarios. For more informal settings, simpler alternatives are recommended. Remember to consider your audience and the context when using this phrase to ensure clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initiate first contact with

Replaces "make" with "initiate", emphasizing the action of starting the communication.

establish initial communication with

Uses a more formal tone by substituting "make first contact" with "establish initial communication".

get in touch with for the first time

Emphasizes the act of reaching out, adding the element of it being the first instance.

reach out to initially

Highlights the action of reaching out, specifying that it is the first attempt.

begin communication with

Focuses on starting the communication process.

open dialogue with

Implies starting a conversation or discussion.

commence relations with

Suggests a more formal and official beginning of a relationship.

introduce oneself to

Focuses on the act of self-introduction as the initial contact.

connect with for the very first time

Highlights the novelty and initial nature of the connection.

send an introductory message to

Specifies the action of sending a message as the first contact.

FAQs

How can I use "make first contact with" in a sentence?

You can use "make first contact with" to describe the initial act of reaching out to someone, such as "The company decided to "make first contact with" potential investors."

What are some alternatives to "make first contact with"?

Alternatives include "initiate contact with", "establish initial communication with", or "reach out to initially", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "make first contact with"?

It is appropriate to use "make first contact with" when describing a formal or significant initial interaction, such as in diplomatic, scientific, or professional contexts.

Is "make first contact with" formal or informal?

The phrase is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. For more informal situations, consider simpler alternatives like "meet" or "reach out to".