the first time around

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the first time around" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to an initial attempt or occurrence of something. For example, "I failed my driving test the first time around, but I passed it on my second try."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"I would be lying if I said I wasn't hurt the first time around," Kendrick said.

The New York Times - Sports

The first time around, anyway.

Huffington Post

Like, she killed it the first time around, sooooo... .

Huffington Post

For a dramatic look, smudge your eyeliner the first time around, then reapply another layer.

WikiHow

Not meeting your goal the first time around is an opportunity to learn more about yourself.

WikiHow

Yourself, the first time around?

The New York Times

It worked better the first time around.

The New York Times

I preferred it the first time around.

The Guardian - Opinion

The first time around, all the teams failed.

The New Yorker

"The first time around he'd get a huge laugh.

The New York Times

I probably was much more conservative the first time around.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the first time around", ensure there's a clear indication of a subsequent attempt or experience to provide context and complete the comparison.

Common error

Avoid using "the first time around" when there is no subsequent event or repeated action being discussed. The phrase implies a second or later occurrence is relevant for comparison.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the first time around" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause. It specifies when something occurred, indicating it was the initial instance of an action or event. Ludwig confirms its use across varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Wiki

24%

Science

24%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the first time around" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to denote an initial attempt or experience, implying a subsequent occurrence for comparison. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and common across diverse sources such as News & Media, Wiki, and Science. While generally neutral in tone, it is most effective when context suggests a progression or change from the initial instance. For more formal contexts, consider alternatives like "initially". Remember to avoid using the expression if there's no possibility of a second experience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on the first attempt

This is a more explicit version that emphasizes the attempt itself.

the very first time

Emphasis is given to the uniqueness and importance of this initial event.

initially

This is a single-word adverb that directly replaces the entire phrase with a focus on the starting point.

at first

A more concise way to express the same concept.

the initial time

A slightly more formal variation, focusing on the first instance.

at the beginning

This phrase shifts the focus slightly to the temporal aspect of the initial attempt.

in the first instance

This alternative highlights the idea of a preliminary occurrence or action.

in the beginning

Focuses on the start, or genesis of something.

on its debut

Useful when talking about the start or first impression of something artistic or newly launched.

during the inaugural period

More formal and specific, denoting a very early stage.

FAQs

How can I use "the first time around" in a sentence?

Use "the first time around" to indicate an initial attempt or experience, implying that there was or will be a second or subsequent attempt. For example, "I didn't understand the instructions "the first time around", but after reviewing them again, I understood them better."

What phrases are similar to "the first time around"?

Similar phrases include "initially", "on the first attempt", or "at the beginning". Each of these provides a similar meaning, emphasizing the initial occurrence of something.

Is it always necessary to mention a second attempt after using "the first time around"?

While not strictly necessary, it's best practice to imply or explicitly mention a subsequent attempt to give context to the initial one. This helps clarify why you're singling out the "the first time around" experience.

Can "the first time around" be used in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, in very formal writing, consider alternatives such as "initially" or "in the first instance" to maintain a more professional tone. The appropriateness depends on the overall context and audience.