the first instance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the first instance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the initial occurrence of something in a particular context or situation. Example: "In the first instance, we should consider the implications of this decision before moving forward."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In the first instance, inventories increase.

The Economist

From the Ministry of Finance, in the first instance.

The Economist

It's good at preventing concentration in the first instance.

The New York Times

In the first instance, I'd have health care reform.

The New York Times

Express Newspapers is seeking voluntary redundancies in the first instance.

The Guardian

In the first instance, what followed was the Great Depression.

The New Yorker

Now we always believe the victim in the first instance.

The Guardian

In the first instance, Mr. Mondello is correct.

The New York Times

Email us in the first instance at [email protected].

The Guardian

In the first instance, it's not a jazz album.

The Guardian - Film

"His departure will be demoralising in the first instance.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the first instance" to clearly indicate the initial action, example, or occurrence in a sequence or situation. This helps to establish a clear timeline or logical progression for your reader.

Common error

Avoid using "the first instance" when you simply mean 'an example'. Ensure that it truly represents the initial case or occurrence, not just a random example.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the first instance" acts as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to specify when something occurs or should be considered initially. Ludwig's examples show it introducing actions or considerations that should be addressed at the beginning of a process.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

26%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"The first instance" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase, according to Ludwig AI, serving to highlight the initial action, example, or occurrence in a series. Predominantly found in News & Media and Scientific contexts, it maintains a neutral tone suitable for various professional communications. For clarity, ensure it represents a genuine initial case, not merely a random example, and consider alternatives like "initially" or "at first" to vary your expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initially

This adverb directly indicates the beginning or start of something, similar to the initial occurrence.

at first

This phrase denotes the beginning of a situation or action, much like the original start.

in the beginning

This signifies the commencement of an event or period, focusing on the starting point.

to begin with

Used to introduce the first point or action in a sequence.

as a first step

Highlights the initial action taken in a process.

in the primary case

Emphasizes the initial and most important scenario or situation.

as an initial measure

Indicates the first action taken to address a situation.

in the original situation

Focuses on the very first set of circumstances.

at the outset

This highlights the very beginning or start of something.

as a starting point

Suggests the beginning of a discussion or activity.

FAQs

How can I use "the first instance" in a sentence?

Use "the first instance" to introduce the initial action, occurrence, or example in a series of events or considerations. For example, "In the first instance, we should gather all the necessary data".

What are some alternatives to using "the first instance"?

You can use alternatives like "initially", "at first", or "to begin with" depending on the context.

Is "the first instance" formal or informal?

"The first instance" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it is more commonly found in formal writing and speech due to its precise and clear nature. You can use initially in informal contexts.

What's the difference between "the first instance" and "the second instance"?

"The first instance" refers to the initial occurrence or example, whereas "the second instance" refers to the subsequent or next occurrence. They are used to distinguish between different points in a sequence.