this is the first time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is the first time" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to point out a situation that is happening for the very first time. For example: "This is the first time I've seen snowfall in the desert."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"This is the first time I have".

The New Yorker

"No, this is the first time".

The New Yorker

"This is the first time for us.

The New York Times

This is the first time today".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

This is the first time for me.

The Guardian - Sport

This is the first time the child has encountered it.

The Guardian - Books

"This is the first time he's stayed healthy," Schiano said.

The New York Times - Sports

"This is the first time that it's happened.

The Guardian - Opinion

"This is the first time they've all disappeared like that.

The Guardian

"This is the first time we've heard anything like that.

The New York Times

"This is the first time I have ever been interviewed".

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this is the first time" to clearly and simply indicate that something is happening for the very first time. This phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "this is the first time" excessively in your writing. While it's a clear and simple phrase, overusing it can make your writing sound repetitive. Consider using synonyms or rephrasing sentences to add variety and maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is the first time" functions as an introductory expression, often followed by a clause that describes the novel event or experience. As Ludwig examples show, it introduces something new to the speaker or a subject.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

94%

Science

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this is the first time" is a versatile and frequently used expression to denote the novelty of an event or experience. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. It's prevalent in news reporting and general conversation, though more formal settings may benefit from alternative phrasing. While straightforward, avoid overuse to maintain engaging and varied writing. Examples illustrate its application across diverse subjects, emphasizing that the phrase effectively communicates the concept of a 'first' occurrence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's unprecedented

Stresses the novelty and lack of historical precedent.

it's never happened before

Focuses on the unprecedented nature of the event.

it's a completely fresh experience

Focuses on the new and unfamiliar nature of the event for the speaker.

never before has this occurred

Highlights the absence of prior occurrences.

this is an original occurrence

Conveys the unique and novel quality of an event.

this marks the inaugural instance

A more formal and emphatic way to indicate it's the beginning.

this occasion is groundbreaking

Indicates that it is something that has never been done.

it's the dawn of something

Implies the start of something new and significant.

this represents the genesis

Suggests that something is being created or started.

this is a maiden voyage

Emphasizes the newness of the experience, often used metaphorically.

FAQs

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

You can use "this is the first time" to indicate the novelty of an experience or event. For example, "This is the first time I've visited Europe", or "This is the first time our company has achieved such high profits".

What are some alternatives to saying "this is the first time"?

Alternatives include "it's unprecedented", "never before has this occurred", or "it's never happened before" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "this is the first time that"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. You can say "This is the first time that I have experienced this" or simply "This is the first time I have experienced this". Both are acceptable.

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

"This is the first time" emphasizes the occasion or event as being novel, while "this is a first" is a shorter, more emphatic declaration of novelty. "This is the first time" I've seen snow in July versus This is a first! I've never seen snow in July.