the first three

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the first three" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to convey that out of a group of items, a specific number is being referenced, in this case the first three. For example: "The first three items on the list are the most important to complete."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"The first three lines can score goals.

The New York Times - Sports

The first three classical concerts (Sept.

The New Yorker

He missed the first three practices.

The New York Times - Sports

I throw out the first three shots.

The New York Times - Food

After the first three, output plummeted.

The New York Times

So who were the first three?

The New York Times

The first three games required 22 minutes.

The New York Times - Sports

The first three no longer exist.

The New York Times

The first three points are widely accepted.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Only the first three?

The Guardian - Sport

The First Three Generations.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the first three", ensure that the context clearly establishes what group of items you are referring to. This avoids ambiguity and ensures clarity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "the first three" without specifying what the larger set is. For example, instead of saying "The first three were difficult", specify "The first three chapters were difficult" to provide context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the first three" functions as a determiner phrase, specifying a quantity and order. It modifies a noun, indicating which specific items from a sequence or group are being referred to. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

29%

Academia

6%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "the first three" is a grammatically correct and versatile expression used to identify the initial items in a sequence or group. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its common usage spans various contexts, from News & Media to Scientific writing. While highly frequent, writers should ensure the context clearly defines the items being referenced to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "the initial three" or "the primary three" can add nuance, but maintaining clarity remains paramount. Overall, mastering the appropriate use of "the first three" enhances precision in written communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the initial three

Emphasizes the starting point of a sequence.

the inaugural three

Implies a beginning or introduction.

the primary three

Highlights the importance or priority of the first three.

the leading three

Focuses on those in the forefront or ahead.

the top three

Indicates a ranking or superior position.

the earliest three

Highlights temporal precedence.

the foremost three

Stresses prominence or significance.

the preceding three

Highlights that the items have come before something else.

the opening three

Refers to the beginning or start.

the original three

Focuses on the initial or first set.

FAQs

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

Use "the first three" to refer to the initial items in a defined sequence or group. For example, "The first three chapters of the book were the most engaging".

What phrases are similar to "the first three"?

Similar phrases include "the initial three", "the primary three", and "the top three", each offering a slightly different nuance.

Is it better to say "the three first" or "the first three"?

"The first three" is the correct and standard way to express this concept in English. "The three first" is grammatically incorrect.

In what contexts is "the first three" commonly used?

"The first three" is versatile and can be used in many contexts, including describing steps in a process, ranking items, or referring to initial members of a group.