the first such

USAGE SUMMARY

"the first such" is a grammatically correct phrase that can be used in written English.
You can use it when referring to the first example of something previously mentioned. Example: I was surprised to find that this was the first such instance of bullying in my son's school.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They were the first such contacts since the meeting opened.

The New York Times

It is not the first such competition.

The New York Times

It was not the first such criticism.

The New Yorker

This is not the first such venture.

The New York Times - Arts

It was not the first such warning.

The Economist

Nor was this the first such incident.

The Economist

This is the first such summit.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The first such case occurred in 2007.

Harvard University

This was the first such summit.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

And it's not the first such example.

The Guardian - Business

"This is the first such case".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the first such", ensure that the context clearly establishes what "such" refers to. Be specific in identifying the category or type of instance you are highlighting.

Common error

Avoid using "the first such" without a clear antecedent. Make sure it's immediately obvious what "such" is referring to, otherwise, rephrase for clarity. For example, instead of saying "This was the first such", specify "This was the first such attempt" or "This was the first such incident".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the first such" functions as a determiner phrase, specifically identifying the initial instance of something within a predefined category. Ludwig AI affirms its correct usage. It highlights the novelty or precedence of a specific event, item, or action, as seen in the examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Academia

33%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the first such" is a versatile phrase commonly used to denote the initial instance of something within a specific context. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely accepted across various forms of writing. Predominantly featured in news and academic sources, it maintains a neutral tone suitable for broad audiences. When employing this phrase, ensure that the referent of "such" is unmistakably clear to avoid ambiguity. If seeking alternative expressions, consider options like "inaugural", "initial", or "pioneering", each offering subtle variations in emphasis. Remember to specify the context and ensure proper sentence construction.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the inaugural such

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

the initial such

Substitutes "first" with "initial", denoting the start or beginning stage.

the very first such

Adds "very" for emphasis, highlighting the uniqueness of the first instance.

the pioneering such

Replaces "first" with "pioneering", indicating that it is the first of its kind and sets a precedent.

the original such

Replaces "first" with "original", highlighting the source or beginning of something.

a groundbreaking such

Uses "groundbreaking" to emphasize the innovative nature of the first instance.

the foremost such

Replaces "first" with "foremost", highlighting its leading or most important position.

the premier such

Substitutes "first" with "premier", emphasizing its superior quality or importance as the first.

the earliest such

Replaces "first" with "earliest", focusing on the time aspect of the beginning.

the prototype such

Uses "prototype" to highlight its role as the initial model or example.

FAQs

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

Use "the first such" to refer back to a previously mentioned category or event. For example, "After many failures, this was "the first successful" attempt."

What are some alternatives to "the first such"?

You can use phrases like "the inaugural", "the initial", or "the very first" depending on the specific context to add emphasis or nuance.

Is it always necessary to specify what "such" refers to after using "the first such"?

While not always grammatically required, specifying what "such" refers to improves clarity. Without a clear reference, the reader might misinterpret the meaning. Providing context ensures effective communication.

What's the difference between "the first such" and "a first"?

"The first such" refers to the initial occurrence within a specific category or context already established. "A first" simply indicates a beginning or something done for the first time in general, without necessarily relating to a prior discussion. For example: "This is a first for me" versus "This is "the first such" occurrence this year."