the very first time

USAGE SUMMARY

"the very first time" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase to express something that happened at the beginning or for the initial occurrence of something. For example, "I was nervous the very first time I went skydiving."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I got pregnant the very first time.

The New York Times

From the very first time, we liked Misha.

The New York Times

I remember the very first time I was upgraded.

The New York Times

The very first time I got drunk, I was 10.

The New York Times - Magazine

"He recorded many songs for the very first time".

The New York Times - Arts

Sometimes for the very first time they see that science really has a human heart.

Stanford University

One collection was received relatively recently, and is on display for the very first time.

Columbia University

I suppose that was the very first time when I got interested in chemistry.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The very first time you get paid, it's like: "I can make anything I want!

The New York Times - Magazine

But the very first time they met was on the air, on "The Colbert Report".

The New Yorker

"The very first time you're stung by a bee, you won't be allergic," said Dr. Pacheco.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the very first time" to emphasize the novelty or impact of an initial experience. It adds a sense of significance to the event being described.

Common error

Avoid using "the very first time" when simply indicating the order of events without emphasizing novelty. Opt for simpler alternatives like "the first time" or "initially" if the emphasis isn't on the unique nature of the experience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the very first time" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause by specifying when an action occurred. It emphasizes the initiation of an event or experience. Ludwig AI confirms its usability through numerous real-world examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Academia

25%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the very first time" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to emphasize the beginning of an experience. Ludwig AI analysis reveals its prevalence across diverse contexts, from News & Media to academic publications, indicating its broad acceptance. While versatile, it's best used when highlighting the unique impact of an initial event. Remember, you can emphasize the novelty of a start by choosing "the very first time". Check out the related phrases to explore less common ways of expressing the same concept.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the beginning

A simple and direct way to express the start of something.

when it all began

Recalls the starting point of a sequence of events or a process.

at the initial instance

Emphasizes the starting point or beginning of an event, using more formal language.

at the outset

Similar to 'at the beginning' but can imply a project or undertaking.

upon its debut

Highlights the introduction or first appearance of something new.

the inaugural moment

Highlights a formal or significant beginning.

in its earliest iteration

Focuses on the original or initial version of something that may have evolved.

at inception

Focuses on the very moment something was created or started.

from the get-go

An informal way of saying 'from the beginning'.

in its infancy

Implies something is in its early stages of development.

FAQs

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

Use "the very first time" to describe an initial experience or event, emphasizing its significance or novelty. For example, "I was nervous "the very first time" I spoke in public".

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

For a more formal tone, consider using alternatives like "at the outset" or "in its earliest iteration". These options maintain the meaning of the initial occurrence while elevating the register of your writing. See more alternatives in "related phrases".

Is there a difference between "the first time" and "the very first time"?

"The very first time" emphasizes the uniqueness or impact of the initial event more strongly than simply "the first time". The addition of "very" amplifies the feeling of novelty or importance.

Can I use "the very first time" in academic writing?

Yes, "the very first time" is acceptable in academic writing, especially when you want to highlight the initial occurrence of a phenomenon or experiment. Ensure it fits the overall tone and isn't overly informal. Check our "usage summary" for further information.