on first thought

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on first thought" is correct and commonly used in written English.
This phrase is used when a person is expressing their immediate opinion on a subject, which may subsequently change. For example, "On first thought, I wasn't sure I wanted to attend the party, but then I changed my mind."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

On first thought, one might expect the smoker subgroup to have been more lenient towards smoking patients, especially since this would be in their own best interest.

BMC Medical Ethics

On first thought it seems clear that Ms. Hilton didn't invent the selfie — though W Magazine inexplicably said this year that she had.

The New York Times - Style

Firstly I am a rather impulsive person: act first, then think, and this seemed to me the best thing to do on first thought.

The Guardian

So the network of branches becomes a kind of surrealistic plumbing, albeit less absurd than it might seem on first thought.

The New York Times - Arts

I spent last year conducting an anthropological study of the British Humanist Association BHAan, an organisation which on first thought might not bring to mind a commitment to rites de passage.

The Guardian - Opinion

On first thought, it's a great idea.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

On second thought, scrap that one.

The New York Times

On second thought, scratch that last one.

The New Yorker

On second thought, maybe not his best one.

Los Angeles Times

On second thought.

The Economist

On second thought, never mind.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on first thought" to introduce an initial reaction or idea that may be subject to change upon further consideration.

Common error

Avoid presenting ideas prefaced with "on first thought" as definitive conclusions; ensure you either develop the idea further or indicate how your thinking evolved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on first thought" functions as an introductory element, signaling that the speaker or writer is presenting an initial impression or reaction. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it precedes an idea that might evolve or be reconsidered.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

36%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on first thought" serves as an introductory marker, indicating an initial reaction or preliminary idea that may undergo further development or revision. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in expressing immediate opinions. While not as frequent as other introductory phrases, it is versatile enough for diverse contexts, from News & Media to scientific discourse. For effective communication, remember to use "on first thought" to introduce evolving ideas, and consider alternatives like "at first glance" or "initially" to add nuance. By following these guidelines, you can enhance your writing and speaking with precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

upon initial reflection

Emphasizes that the thought comes from some kind of consideration, even if quick

as a first impression

Highlights the subjective feeling that is experienced

at first glance

Focuses on the visual aspect of the initial impression.

on the face of it

Emphasizes the apparent or superficial nature of the initial thought.

at first blush

Similar to 'at first glance' but implies a more superficial assessment.

initially

A simpler adverb indicating the beginning of a thought or action.

at the outset

Refers to the very beginning of a process or consideration.

to begin with

Highlights the starting point of a line of reasoning.

at the initial stage

Focuses on the early phase of consideration or action.

in the beginning

A more general way to refer to the start of something.

FAQs

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

Use "on first thought" to introduce an initial idea or reaction. For example, "On first thought, the plan seemed impossible, but after some consideration, it appeared feasible."

What are some alternatives to "on first thought"?

Alternatives include "at first glance", "initially", or "on the face of it", each conveying a slightly different nuance of initial impression.

Is it redundant to say "on first thought, I thought"?

Yes, it's redundant. "On first thought" already implies that it is your initial impression or thought, so adding "I thought" repeats the same idea unnecessarily.

How formal is the phrase "on first thought"?

The phrase "on first thought" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, making it versatile for various writing and speaking situations.