on first base

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on first base" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in the context of baseball to refer to the first base position or metaphorically to indicate an initial stage in a process or relationship. Example: "After our first date, I feel like we're just on first base in getting to know each other."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

With Terrence Long on first base and one out, Ramon Hernandez laced a single to right.

The New York Times - Sports

If you decide to wait on first base this season, Morales is one to target late.

The New York Times

Zimmerman crashes one to right field and the Nats have a man on (first) base again.

The Guardian - Sport

On first base.

The New York Times - Sports

Oakland's Terrence Long was on first base.

The New York Times - Magazine

Jeter was on first base; there were two outs.

The New York Times - Sports

St Louis have their first man on first base.

The Guardian - Sport

And Washington again have a man on first base.

The Guardian - Sport

No outs with a runner on first base:.902.902

The New York Times - Magazine

Davis smiled widely as he stood on first base.

The New York Times - Sports

"Two bounces, and he was on first base".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on first base" metaphorically, ensure the context is clear. The baseball analogy should enhance understanding, not confuse the reader. For example, "Their relationship is still "on first base", they've only been on a few dates."

Common error

Avoid using "on first base" when a more direct phrase would be clearer. Overusing baseball metaphors can alienate readers unfamiliar with the sport. Instead of saying "The project is "on first base"," try "The project is in its early stages."

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "on first base" is to act as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, indicating a location or state of being. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is usable in written English and has both literal and figurative applications.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on first base" is a common expression with both literal and metaphorical meanings. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically sound and frequently used. Literally, it refers to a player's position in baseball. Metaphorically, it describes something in its initial or early stages. While prevalent in news and media, its informality suggests caution in formal writing. Related phrases such as "in the early stages" offer more formal alternatives. Remember to use the baseball analogy judiciously to avoid confusion and ensure clarity in your writing. The examples provided by Ludwig show that this phrase has frequent usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

having reached first base

Focuses on the action of successfully getting to first base.

a runner on first

Specifies a situation in baseball where a player occupies first base.

occupying first base

Highlights the state of a player being positioned at first base.

positioned at first base

Emphasizes the location of a player at first base.

advancing to first base

Describes the act of moving towards and arriving at first base.

standing on the first base

Highlights a player's physical presence at the first base.

at the initial stage

Uses a more general term for the beginning of a process, abstracting the baseball context.

in the early stages

Similar to "at the initial stage", indicating the commencement of something.

at the starting point

Emphasizes the very beginning of a sequence or activity.

just beginning

Simplifies the concept to a basic expression of starting something.

FAQs

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

The phrase "on first base" can be used literally in baseball contexts, such as "The runner was "on first base" when the batter hit a double". It can also be used metaphorically to describe the initial stage of a process or relationship, for example, "Our business plan is still "on first base", we need more market research".

What does it mean to be "on first base"?

Literally, it refers to a baseball player standing at first base. Metaphorically, it means being at the very beginning or initial stage of something, like a project, relationship, or plan.

What can I say instead of "on first base" when referring to the start of something?

You can use alternatives like "in the early stages", "at the beginning", or "just starting out" depending on the context.

Is "on first base" formal or informal?

The phrase "on first base" is generally considered informal, especially when used metaphorically. In formal writing, it's better to use more direct and professional language like "at the initial phase" or "in the preliminary stages".