the first item

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the first item" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the initial element in a list or sequence. Example: "In our discussion today, the first item on the agenda is the budget review."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The first item on its agenda?

The Economist

(Cook's report is the first item).

The Guardian

✒ And back to the first item.

The Guardian

The first item was about Gaza.

The Guardian - Opinion

The first item on her list?

Princeton University

Look the first item in today's report.

The New York Times

The first item on the group's agenda: flooding.

The New York Times

The first item: "Be liked by French artists".

The New Yorker

The first item donated was the so-called Washington table.

The New York Times

The first item you need is the wireless access point.

The New York Times - Tech

But that is only the first item on the list.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the first item" in a list or agenda, ensure it logically introduces the subsequent items or sets the stage for the overall discussion. This helps create a coherent and progressive flow.

Common error

Avoid using "the first item" when you are actually referring to the most important item, rather than the one appearing at the beginning. Consider using phrases like "the main priority" or "the key focus" instead.

Linguistic Context

The first item functions as a noun phrase that identifies the initial element within a list, sequence, or agenda. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is grammatically sound and widely used, as evidenced by the numerous examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the first item" is a grammatically correct and very common phrase used to denote the initial element in a sequence or list. Ludwig AI validates its broad usage across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While versatile, it is crucial to distinguish it from phrases indicating importance rather than sequence. Its straightforwardness suits both formal and informal registers, making it a reliable choice for clear communication. When employing "the first item", ensure it logically connects to subsequent items to maintain coherence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

The initial item

Replaces "first" with "initial", emphasizing the beginning or commencement of something.

The primary item

Substitutes "first" with "primary", highlighting the importance or main focus of the item.

The opening item

Uses "opening" instead of "first", suggesting the item that starts a sequence or event.

The leading item

Replaces "first" with "leading", indicating the item that comes before others in a list or process.

The top item

Uses "top" instead of "first", suggesting the item that is at the beginning or highest position in a list.

The foremost item

Substitutes "first" with "foremost", emphasizing the item's importance and position at the front.

The introductory item

Replaces "first" with "introductory", highlighting that the item serves as an introduction or beginning.

The inaugural item

Uses "inaugural" instead of "first", suggesting the item that marks the beginning or commencement of something significant.

The premier item

Replaces "first" with "premier", indicating the item that is of the highest quality or importance at the start.

The head item

Substitutes "first" with "head", highlighting the item's position at the front or top of a list or sequence.

FAQs

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

Use "the first item" to refer to the initial element in a sequence, list, or agenda. For example, "The first item on the agenda is the budget review."

What can I say instead of "the first item"?

You can use alternatives like "the initial item", "the primary item", or "the opening item" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "the first item on the list"?

While "on the list" might seem implied, including it clarifies that you're specifically referencing an ordered sequence. Omitting it can work if the context already makes this clear.

What's the difference between "the first item" and "the main item"?

"The first item" refers to the item that appears at the beginning, while "the main item" refers to the most important or significant item, regardless of its position.