the first time one

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the first time one" is not correct and sounds awkward in written English.
It may be intended to refer to an individual's initial experience or occurrence of something, but it lacks clarity and proper structure. Example: "This was the first time one could truly appreciate the beauty of the sunset."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"I remember the first time one of the boats arrived on our beach," recalls Pothiti.

The Guardian

For the first time, one person could play every instrument on a song.

TechCrunch

We are now, for the first time, one voice ringing loud and clear on Capitol Hill.

Huffington Post

The first time one was worn, there was a ceremony that included sprinkling salt on the coat to purify it.

The New York Times - Arts

The exhibition is not the first time one has been shown here.

The New York Times

And, for the first time, one could have a career in Iceland as a bodyguard.

The New Yorker

Yet the first time one was exhibited in his lifetime it caused uproar.

The Guardian - Books

This might be the first time one of his trips has been marred by bad manners.

The New York Times

This is not the first time one of Mullan's films has sparked controversy.

The Guardian - Film

It was the first time one of our pets was named after an adverb.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Not for the first time, one-party rule in Japan seems doomed.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to a general experience, it is better to rephrase "the first time one" using specific subjects or more common expressions like "the first time someone" or "the first experience."

Common error

Avoid using "the first time one" in formal writing. It is often perceived as stilted. Instead, opt for clearer and more direct alternatives like "the first time someone" or rephrase for better readability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the first time one" functions as an adverbial phrase indicating the initial occurrence of an event or experience. However, according to Ludwig AI, this phrasing is not ideal and can sound unnatural.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while understandable, the phrase "the first time one" is generally considered awkward and is not recommended for use in polished writing. As Ludwig AI points out, it lacks clarity and a natural flow. Instead, opting for alternatives like "the first time someone", "the first experience", or specifying the subject provides a more effective and clearer way to convey the intended meaning. Always aim for precision and ease of understanding in your writing, making choices that enhance readability and avoid unnecessary awkwardness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the first experience

Replaces 'time' with 'experience', emphasizing personal involvement.

the very first time

Adds emphasis with 'very', highlighting the uniqueness of the first experience.

the first attempt

Highlights the act of trying something for the first time.

the first instance

Replaces 'time' with 'instance', focusing on a specific occurrence.

the initial occasion

Uses 'initial' and 'occasion' to emphasize the commencement of an event.

the first opportunity

Focuses on the availability of a chance or possibility.

the debut

Condenses the idea to a single word indicating a first public appearance or use.

the opening

Similar to 'debut', it denotes the start or beginning of something.

the first go

Uses the informal term 'go' to mean attempt or try.

initially

A single-word adverb indicating something happened at the beginning.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "the first time one" for better clarity?

Consider using alternatives like "the first time someone", "the first experience", or specifying the subject for improved clarity.

Is "the first time one" grammatically incorrect?

While not strictly incorrect, "the first time one" can sound awkward and less natural. It's generally recommended to use clearer and more common alternatives.

What is a more formal way to express "the first time one"?

In formal contexts, specifying the subject (e.g., "the first time a user") or using a more refined phrase like "on the initial occasion" is preferable.

Can "the first time one" be used interchangeably with "the first time someone"?

While they share a similar meaning, "the first time someone" is generally more acceptable and commonly used.