series of firsts

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "series of firsts" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a sequence of events or achievements that are the first of their kind, often highlighting milestones or significant moments. Example: "The team celebrated a series of firsts this season, including their first win against a rival team and their first appearance in the playoffs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

Then, a series of firsts.

The New York Times

A series of firsts ensues including first late employee.

The New Yorker

The effort is also a series of firsts for Sony.

The New York Times

The biathlon events were marked by a series of firsts.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The afternoon offered a series of firsts for many of the students.

The New York Times - Arts

In the UK, however, we are still on a series of firsts.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

Rowlatt does however, and while there she quizzes a series of third-wave feminists on where liberation should head next.

Independent

The uncertainty of the ending left the Capriati family to endure a series of third-set anxiety attacks.

The New York Times - Sports

Last Orders was told from a series of first-person perspectives because everyone involved had the gift of the gab.

The Guardian - Books

Ainge's tenure has resulted in a series of first-round eliminations and so-so draft picks.

The New York Times - Sports

He won the Master Pairs twice, the challenging Masters Individual once and had a series of second-place finishes in national events.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "series of firsts", ensure the context clearly indicates what specific achievements or events are being referred to. Provide concrete examples to enhance clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "series of firsts" for minor or insignificant achievements. The phrase carries a connotation of substantial progress or innovation, so reserve it for truly noteworthy occasions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "series of firsts" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI's analysis indicates its correct usage in describing a sequence of inaugural events or achievements. The examples highlight its role in emphasizing significant milestones.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Encyclopedias

9%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "series of firsts" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that highlights a sequence of inaugural events or pioneering achievements. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its consistent application across diverse contexts, particularly in news and media, where it emphasizes progress and innovation. When employing this phrase, ensure the context clearly defines the specific achievements to enhance clarity and impact. Although versatile, "series of firsts" is most effective when reserved for truly noteworthy occasions, avoiding overuse for minor events. Alternatives such as "string of debuts" or "succession of landmarks" can provide nuanced variations, but remember that these alternatives have a slightly different meaning and should be chosen accordingly to fit the tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

string of debuts

Replaces "firsts" with "debuts", emphasizing the initial appearance or introduction of something.

succession of landmarks

Substitutes "firsts" with "landmarks", highlighting significant achievements or milestones.

chain of premieres

Uses "premieres" instead of "firsts", focusing on the initial presentation or opening of events.

collection of inaugurals

Employs "inaugurals" to denote the beginning or commencement of a set of events or actions.

run of initial events

Replaces "series" with "run" and "firsts" with "initial events", creating a more descriptive alternative.

sequence of breakthroughs

Focuses on the innovative or pioneering aspect of the events, using "breakthroughs" instead of "firsts".

parade of novelties

Highlights the new or unique character of the events, substituting "firsts" with "novelties".

cycle of introductions

Uses "cycle" instead of "series" and "introductions" instead of "firsts", suggesting a recurring pattern of initial events.

wave of forerunners

Emphasizes the pioneering nature of the events, replacing "firsts" with "forerunners".

line of originating instances

Offers a more formal and descriptive alternative, substituting "firsts" with "originating instances".

FAQs

How can I effectively use "series of firsts" in a sentence?

To use "series of firsts" effectively, provide context. For example, "The company celebrated a series of firsts this year, including the first successful product launch and the first expansion into international markets."

What are some alternatives to using "series of firsts"?

You can use alternatives like "string of debuts", "succession of landmarks", or "chain of premieres" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "series of firsts" in formal writing?

Yes, "series of firsts" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when highlighting significant achievements or milestones. However, ensure that the "firsts" are truly noteworthy.

What's the difference between "series of firsts" and "a few firsts"?

"Series of firsts" implies a longer, more significant sequence of inaugural events, while "a few firsts" suggests a smaller, less consequential number of initial occurrences. The choice depends on the scale of the achievements.