on first approach

USAGE SUMMARY

"on first approach" is correct and can be used in written English.
Example sentence: On first approach, the challenging task seemed insurmountable, but with perseverance, I was able to achieve it.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

On first approach, this one building looks like two.

The Guardian - Arts

But on first approach, the eye is enticed by the play of abstract forms.

The New York Times - Arts

We approach the secret life of another language more intimately on first approach than after we have married into it.

The New Yorker

ON FIRST APPROACH, Surf City USA seems an awful lot like Anytown, USA.

Los Angeles Times

On first approach, La La Land seems like a surprising film from Damien Chazelle, the 31-year-old director and screenwriter who broke out three years ago with the brutal Miles Teller drama Whiplash.

Vice

The work of Arca over the last year or so has seen a take on electronic music that has been slippery and difficult to define, with shapes and rhythms that on first approach seem almost unpleasant.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Some companies, on first approaching this work, have a tendency to burlesque its style: performing its shearing lines and perilously exacting detail with a mix of bolshie attitude and slutty virtuosity.

The Guardian

The suitability index based on the first approach (R2 = 0.34) was greater than the suitability index based on the second approach (R2 = 0.89).

Ecological Modelling

On my first approach to Le Barroux, I circled around Carpentras, the nearest town of any size.

The New York Times - Travel

Then with a gusty wind threatening from the south-east, M. Turcat put her firmly down on his first approach.

The Guardian

This meeting will focus principally on the first approach outlined above: corporate codes and monitoring, with some discussion as well on state efforts in this area.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on first approach" to describe initial impressions or assessments, especially when contrasting them with later observations or deeper analyses.

Common error

Avoid using "on first approach" when discussing in-depth analysis; it's better suited for highlighting initial perceptions rather than comprehensive understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on first approach" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the timing or perspective of an initial assessment or observation. It sets the stage for describing the initial impression before further analysis or experience.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

40%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on first approach" is a prepositional phrase used to describe initial impressions or assessments. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, finding it primarily in News & Media and Scientific contexts. The phrase serves to introduce an initial viewpoint, often implying that a more nuanced understanding will follow. While not overly common, its usage is consistent across credible sources. To enhance clarity, consider alternatives like "at first glance" or "initially" for similar effect.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at first glance

Emphasizes a quick, initial impression based on visual assessment.

initially

Focuses on the beginning or start of an action or perception.

at the outset

Implies a beginning or start, often in a more formal context.

upon closer inspection

Suggests a more detailed examination following the initial view.

to begin with

Indicates the first step or consideration in a series.

in the beginning

Highlights the starting point or initial phase of something.

from the start

Emphasizes the entire duration from the initial point.

at the start

Similar to 'from the start' but can also refer to a specific starting point.

at the jump

An informal way to indicate the beginning of an activity or process.

on the face of it

Indicates an assessment based on superficial appearances only.

FAQs

How can I use "on first approach" in a sentence?

You can use "on first approach" to describe an initial impression or reaction to something. For instance, "On first approach, the problem seemed simple, but it soon became more complex".

What's a good alternative to "on first approach"?

Alternatives include "at first glance", "initially", or "at the outset", depending on the context.

Is "on first approach" formal or informal?

"On first approach" is generally considered neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal writing.

How does "on first approach" differ from "upon closer inspection"?

"On first approach" refers to the initial view or assessment, while "upon closer inspection" suggests a more detailed examination that follows the initial view. The first is a surface-level assessment, while the second is a deeper dive.