this is a first

USAGE SUMMARY

This is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to something being the first of its kind, or when introducing a new concept. For example: "This is a first for me - I've never gone bungee jumping before!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

This is a first.

The Economist

This is a first step".

The New York Times

"This is a first step," he said.

The New York Times

But this is a first for me.

The New York Times

This is a first, I should say.

The New Yorker

"This is a first," Mack said.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

This is a first-order moral and economic mistake.

The Guardian - Opinion

"This is a first-degree rape case, not a misdemeanor".

The New York Times

this is a first-rate, classic digging situation.

The New Yorker

"This is a first-time effort," he said.

The New York Times

"This is a first-of-a-kind campaign," he adds.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this is a first" to emphasize the novelty or uniqueness of a situation, event, or achievement.

Common error

Avoid using "this is a first" when referring to something that has occurred before, even if it's new to you personally. Ensure it's genuinely the first instance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is a first" functions as a statement indicating that something is happening or being experienced for the very first time. Ludwig's examples show it can express surprise, novelty, or the commencement of a new stage or event.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this is a first" is a grammatically sound phrase used to denote something happening for the first time. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and highlights its utility in various contexts, from expressing personal surprise to emphasizing innovation in formal settings. While not exceedingly common, it is well-understood and widely applicable. The phrase is most frequently found in news and media, but also has applications in scientific and formal/business writing. When using the phrase, ensure that you are truly referring to an unprecedented event to avoid misuse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this is the first of its kind

Directly states the uniqueness of the subject.

this is unprecedented

Emphasizes the lack of prior occurrence.

this marks a new beginning

Highlights the start of something different.

this is a novel approach

Focuses on the innovative nature of the action.

this is an initial step

Highlights the beginning stage of a process.

this is groundbreaking

Stresses the innovative and pioneering aspect.

this is a maiden voyage

Conveys the idea of a first journey or attempt.

this is a pioneering effort

Emphasizes the initiative and innovation involved.

this is a debut

Highlights the first public appearance or performance.

this represents an innovation

Indicates the introduction of something new or improved.

FAQs

How can I use "this is a first" in a sentence?

You can use "this is a first" to indicate that something is happening for the first time. For example, "this is a first for me, I've never seen snow before".

What are some alternatives to "this is a first"?

Alternatives include phrases like "this is unprecedented", "this marks a new beginning", or "this is the first of its kind".

Is it appropriate to use "this is a first" in formal writing?

Yes, "this is a first" is appropriate in formal writing, especially when emphasizing the innovative or pioneering nature of a subject. However, consider more formal alternatives like "this represents an innovation" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "this is a first" and "this is a first time"?

"This is a first" emphasizes the novelty of an event or situation in general, while "this is a first time" often refers to a personal experience. For example, "This is a first: a female president" vs. "This is a first time for me: I'm voting".