this is the first instance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is the first instance" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the initial occurrence of a particular event or situation. Example: "This is the first instance of the phenomenon being documented in scientific literature."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But this is the first instance this year in which an insider attack by an Afghan intelligence employee is known to have resulted in a death of a member of the NATO-led coalition.

The New York Times

This is the first instance where it's not hypothetical.

The New York Times

This is the first instance of the complete overthrow of Governmental authority in any provincial capital since the Taiping rebellion.

The New York Times

"This is the first instance in which a supervisor has come to me extending help," said Mr. Haque, who is originally from India.

The New York Times

"This is the first instance in which a country itself turns to the highest body of the U.N. to deal with such problematic issues," he said.

The New York Times

Scott McGraw, senior vice president of sports sales for CBS, said: "This is the first instance where we've had any issue related to that part of the contract.

The New York Times - Sports

Opponents of the plant say this is the first instance of a regulatory agency's rejecting a permit for that reason alone.

The New York Times

"This is the first instance I've been aware of where they've put out a document and given the public an opportunity to comment.

The New York Times

"This is the first instance that a genome has been altered at such a large scale," said James J. Collins, a synthetic biologist at Boston University.

The New York Times - Health

"But this is the first instance that I am aware of where we have been able to document a state-supported and state-sanctioned effort".

The New York Times

Although e-cigarettes have been advertised on TV before, this is the first instance that an individual will be shown inhaling the vapour produced by an electronic cigarette.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "this is the first instance", ensure the context clearly specifies what event or situation is being referred to, providing clarity and avoiding ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "this is the first instance" when it's already clear from the context that you're discussing an initial occurrence. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound repetitive and less impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is the first instance" functions as a declarative statement used to identify and emphasize the initial occurrence of a specific event, situation, or phenomenon. As confirmed by Ludwig, it correctly highlights the novelty or precedent-setting nature of what is being described.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this is the first instance" is a grammatically sound phrase used to emphasize the initial occurrence of an event or situation. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It is very common in various contexts, especially in scientific and news-related reporting. To use it effectively, clearly specify the event you are referencing and avoid overuse to maintain impact. While alternatives exist, such as "this marks the inaugural case" or "this represents the precedent", the choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. Remember, clarity and appropriate context are key to leveraging this phrase effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

This marks the inaugural case

Changes the phrasing to emphasize the beginning or inauguration of a case.

This is the debut occurrence

Uses "debut" to highlight the first appearance or introduction.

This represents the precedent

Focuses on setting a standard or legal example for future situations.

This action inaugurates the series

Specifically refers to starting a sequence or series of events.

This constitutes the initial demonstration

Emphasizes the act of showing or proving something for the first time.

This is a pioneering event

Highlights the innovative and groundbreaking nature of the event.

This moment establishes a baseline

Focuses on setting a standard for future comparisons or evaluations.

This occurrence breaks new ground

Highlights the novelty and innovation of the event or discovery.

Here begins the starting point

Implies that something is starting and uses a slightly more figurative style.

We see here the genesis

Uses a more literary term, "genesis", to refer to the origin or beginning.

FAQs

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

Use "this is the first instance" to highlight the initial occurrence of an event or situation. For example, "This is the first instance of a successful gene therapy for this disease".

What phrases can I use instead of "this is the first instance"?

Alternatives include "this marks the inaugural case", "this represents the precedent", or "this is the debut occurrence" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "this is the first instance" or "this is the first example"?

Both phrases are correct, but they carry slightly different connotations. "This is the first instance" emphasizes the occurrence, while "this is the first example" highlights its role as a representative case. The choice depends on the specific emphasis you want to convey.

What’s the difference between "this is the first instance" and "this is the first time"?

"This is the first instance" usually refers to a specific, documented case or event, often in a formal or scientific context. "This is the first time" is more general and can refer to personal experiences or less formal situations.