on the first sight

USAGE SUMMARY

"on the first sight" is not a commonly used phrase in written English.
It is not grammatically incorrect, but it is not a standard expression. A more commonly used phrase would be "at first glance" or "upon first sight." Example: On the first sight, the house appeared to be small and unassuming, but upon closer inspection, it was revealed to be a grand and luxurious estate.

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

For Ms. Zigic, it was "straightaway, love on the first sight".

The New York Times

Fears that cash will be misused are deep rooted and do not simply fade away on the first sight of evidence to the contrary.

The Guardian

On the first sight, this seems to be an antagonism in view of the growth results.

Environmental Sciences Europe

Think about other risks and life-threatening states that might not be visible on the first sight (internal bleeding, spinal injuries).

European Transport Research Review

It is shown that in graphene, these properties essentially differ from similar base properties for crystals with a simple lattice, despite insignificant, on the first sight, difference of dispersion law ε(p).

Nanoscale Research Letters

Thus on the first sight the model of Sakai & Nishimura 2006 may give the impression of a pure feed forward connectivity scheme.

Plosone

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

ARRIVE by air, as foreign officials usually do, and one of the first sights on the road into Lusaka, the capital, is a huge sign affirming the government's zeal in the fight against corruption.

The Economist

Using a photo-identification method, the animal matched with one whale that was observed swimming slowly in shallow waters, in front of the coast of Tuscany (Tyrrhenian Sea), Italy, close to the cost of Follonica (GR) on January 16 , 2011 as well as in front of the tourist port of Viareggio (PI) on January 23 , 80km north of the first sighting area.

BMC Veterinary Research

As the start of Ramadan is based on the first sighting of the new moon, it comes earlier and earlier each year.

Independent

"In 1968, I was on the streets, and at the first sight of the police I was off like a shot," he recalled.

The New Yorker

On her part, Cassatt maintained that the first sight of Degas' pastels "was the turning point in my artistic life" (4 ).

Emerging Infectious Diseases

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

While "on the first sight" is understandable, consider using more common alternatives like "at first glance" or "upon first seeing" for clearer and more idiomatic writing.

Common error

Avoid using "on" when "at" or "upon" are more conventional. While understandable, "on the first sight" can sound slightly awkward to native English speakers. Using "at first glance" is often a better choice.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the first sight" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause. It indicates the timing or perspective from which something is observed or judged. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is understandable, but not the most common phrasing.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

46%

News & Media

43%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on the first sight" conveys an initial impression or assessment. While understandable, Ludwig AI notes that it's not the most conventional phrasing, with alternatives like "at first glance" being more common. The phrase sees usage across science, news, and business contexts, but using alternatives can improve clarity and idiomatic expression. Consider the specific context and audience when choosing between "on the first sight" and its alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at first glance

This is a more common and idiomatic alternative, implying a quick, initial assessment.

upon initial observation

This phrase is more formal and emphasizes the act of observing something for the first time.

on first viewing

Specifically refers to the act of seeing something for the first time.

at first blush

This evokes a sense of initial appearance or impression, often suggesting a superficial assessment.

upon first encountering

Highlights the initial experience of meeting or finding something.

on initial inspection

This suggests a more thorough, but still early, examination.

from the outset

This indicates something that is apparent or true from the very beginning.

initially

A simple adverb conveying the idea of something happening at the beginning.

at the beginning

A straightforward phrase emphasizing the start or commencement of something.

in the beginning

Similar to 'at the beginning', but can also suggest a broader sense of origin or creation.

FAQs

What does "on the first sight" mean?

The phrase "on the first sight" means upon the first instance of seeing something. It's similar to saying "at first glance" or "upon first seeing".

Is "on the first sight" grammatically correct?

While understandable, "on the first sight" is less common than "at first glance" or "upon first seeing". The latter are more idiomatic and generally preferred.

What are some alternatives to "on the first sight"?

Some alternatives include "at first glance", "upon first seeing", "initially", or "at first blush". The best choice depends on the specific context.

How can I use "on the first sight" in a sentence?

You can use "on the first sight" to describe an initial impression. For example, "On the first sight, the building appeared small."