the first to know

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the first to know" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to someone who receives information before others or is the initial recipient of news. Example: "I want to be the first to know about any updates regarding the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

I'm the first to know this.

Independent

But you'll be the first to know.

The New Yorker

You are among the first to know".

The Guardian

And you're the first to know".

The Guardian - Music

If it's raining, you'll be the first to know.

The New York Times

Iran is likely to be among the first to know.

The Economist

The Eighth is finally finished and my artistic father must be the first to know".

The New Yorker

"If he ever does emerge and contact us, you will be the first to know".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

I, uh, I wanted you to be the first to know.

The New Yorker

"We wanted you to be among the first to know!

TechCrunch

Teachers were the first to know there are problems that need to be solved.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the first to know" when emphasizing the importance of being informed before others. It is appropriate when promising exclusive or early access to information.

Common error

Avoid using "the first to know" for unimportant or commonplace information. The phrase implies a degree of exclusivity or significance that should match the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the first to know" functions as a predicate adjective phrase, modifying a subject by indicating their position as an early recipient of information. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is used to promise early access to information.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

14%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "the first to know" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that signifies someone being among the earliest recipients of information. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase correctly assures individuals they will receive updates or news promptly. Predominantly found in news and media, with applications in science and business, it maintains a neutral register suitable for various communications. Alternatives include "among the earliest informed" and "the initial recipient of the news". When employing this phrase, ensure that it aligns with the importance of the information being conveyed to avoid misuse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

one of the first to be informed

Adds a passive voice construction.

among the earliest informed

Changes word order and uses synonyms to convey early awareness.

the initial recipient of the news

Replaces "to know" with a more formal term.

the first to be made aware

Replaces 'know' with 'made aware' for a slightly more formal tone.

privy to the initial details

Highlights the privileged access to information.

ahead of the curve

Uses an idiomatic expression for being early to know something.

at the forefront of awareness

Implies being in a leading position in terms of knowledge.

among the inner circle of knowledge

Implies exclusive access to information.

the first one clued in

Uses a more informal and colloquial term.

the pioneer in understanding

Suggests a deeper level of comprehension in addition to early knowledge.

FAQs

How can I use "the first to know" in a sentence?

You can use "the first to know" to indicate that someone will be among the earliest recipients of information. For example, "If there are any changes, you'll be "the first to know"."

What's a more formal alternative to "the first to know"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "among the earliest informed" or "the initial recipient of the news". These options convey a similar meaning but with increased formality.

Is it correct to say "one of the first to know"?

Yes, "one of the first to know" is grammatically correct and implies being among a select group to receive early information. It is very similar in meaning to ""the first to know"".

When is it inappropriate to use "the first to know"?

It's best to avoid using ""the first to know"" in contexts where the information being shared is trivial or readily available to everyone. The phrase suggests exclusivity and importance.