the first requirement

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the first requirement" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the initial condition or necessity that must be met in a particular context, such as a project or task. Example: "The first requirement for this job application is to submit your resume and cover letter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The first requirement was a name director.

Independent

This is the first requirement of the plan itself.

The New York Times

The first requirement is a competent and legitimate government.

The Economist

During campaigns the first requirement is the prevention of sickness.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Loyalty and confidentiality are therefore the first requirement of any member of a court.

The Guardian

The first requirement is for Washington to recognize that there is no purely military solution.

The New York Times

But the first requirement was a leadership that provided a clear strategic direction.

The Guardian

As technicians try to improve battery assembly, the first requirement is a strikingly clean work environment.

The New York Times - Science

Submarines, on patrol in the ocean depths, fulfil the first requirement, they say.

The Guardian

"The first requirement is to create security for foreign and domestic investment," he said.

The New York Times

I would posit physical security as the first requirement for wellbeing, followed closely by loving relationships.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the first requirement", clearly state what follows if the requirement is met to provide a comprehensive understanding of the process or situation.

Common error

Avoid simply stating "the first requirement" without outlining subsequent steps or conditions. Failing to do so can leave the reader without a complete understanding of the process or situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the first requirement" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It introduces a necessary condition that must be satisfied before proceeding. As seen in the Ludwig examples, it is often followed by a clarification of what that condition entails.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the first requirement" is a frequently used and grammatically sound noun phrase that introduces an initial condition or step. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use across various contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedias. When incorporating this phrase into your writing, remember to clarify the subsequent steps or conditions to provide a comprehensive understanding. Alternative phrases like "the primary condition" or "the initial step" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the primary condition

Focuses on the element of precedence and necessity, similar to the original query but with a slightly different emphasis.

the initial condition

Highlights the aspect of sequence and the beginning of a process or set of conditions.

the foremost necessity

Emphasizes the importance and essential nature of the requirement.

the principal prerequisite

Stresses the need for this condition to be met before others.

the essential criterion

Shifts the focus to a standard or benchmark that must be satisfied first.

a basic need

Changes the focus to a fundamental element that is indispensable.

the main stipulation

Highlights a specific term or condition that is required.

the starting point

Emphasizes the initial stage or action needed to begin a process.

the fundamental aspect

Focuses on the underlying or foundational element that is crucial.

a key element

Highlights one of the most important parts of a requirement.

FAQs

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

You can use "the first requirement" to introduce an initial condition that must be met. For example, "The first requirement for obtaining a loan is a good credit score."

What's a good alternative to "the first requirement"?

Consider using alternatives like "the primary condition", "the initial step", or "the essential criterion" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a first requirement" instead of "the first requirement"?

While "a first requirement" isn't grammatically incorrect, "the first requirement" is generally preferred when referring to a specific, defined initial condition. "A first requirement" might be used when listing multiple requirements without emphasizing a specific order.

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

"The first requirement" emphasizes the order or sequence, implying it's the initial step. "The main requirement" stresses importance, indicating it's the most critical condition, regardless of order. The choice depends on whether sequence or importance is the key aspect.