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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
upon first usage
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "upon first usage" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the initial instance or occasion when something is used or applied. Example: "Upon first usage of the new software, users may encounter a brief learning curve."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Wiki
Alternative expressions(19)
upon first use
upon first reading
upon first examination
upon first setup
on initial reading
upon first admission
upon first hearing
upon first view
at first glance
at the outset
upon first look
to begin with
at the beginning
upon first meeting
initially
upon first try
at the first reading
upon first impression
upon second reading
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
2 human-written examples
These cards typically donate a fixed amount upon first usage to a specific charity and then a percentage of your spending each time it's used thereafter.
News & Media
Restructure this so that the abbreviated forms are explained upon first usage.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
58 human-written examples
To make the manuscript more readable for a broader audience, please provide the full names of the abbreviations upon the first usage in the text, such as Nc, CAI, and GC3.
Science
Memory of the first usage has simply been wiped clean, as by a damp rag.
News & Media
Allemagne admits to shedding a tear at the spray's first usage last summer.
News & Media
At first I could see that the subsequent usages were adjacent to the first party of the first usage.
News & Media
It was the first usage for this name.
Wiki
It was the first usage for that name.
Wiki
This was the first usage for both names.
Wiki
The first usage of "gastroenteritis" was in 1825.
Wiki
7) Abstract: "Rabaptin-5C212" should be defined on first usage.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "upon first usage", ensure it's followed by a clear description of what happens or what the user should expect during that initial interaction.
Common error
Avoid using "upon first usage" in very informal contexts; it can sound overly formal or stilted. Opt for simpler alternatives like "when you first use it" or "the first time you use it" in casual writing or speech.
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "upon first usage" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or noun. It indicates the specific timing or condition related to the initial use of something. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is usable in written English.
Frequent in
Science
33%
News & Media
33%
Wiki
17%
Less common in
Formal & Business
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "upon first usage" is a prepositional phrase indicating the initial instance of use, primarily functioning to specify conditions or expectations. While grammatically correct and usable, as Ludwig AI confirms, its formality makes it more suitable for technical or academic contexts. Simpler alternatives like "at first use" or "when first used" may be preferable in informal settings. The phrase appears across diverse sources, including science, news media, and wiki platforms, although its occurrence is relatively uncommon. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity regarding the expected outcomes or procedures during that initial interaction to ensure effective communication.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
at initial use
Replaces "upon" with "at" and "first usage" with "initial use", maintaining the meaning.
when first used
Changes the structure to a subordinate clause using "when", emphasizing the timing.
on its first use
Emphasizes the object being used with "its", focusing on the initial instance of use.
at the first instance of use
Formal alternative emphasizing the specific occasion of first use.
the first time it is used
Rephrases as a clause defining the situation of initial use.
in its inaugural application
Uses more formal vocabulary like "inaugural" and "application".
during initial application
Focuses on the act of applying something for the first time.
when initially implemented
Suitable when referring to systems or processes being used for the first time.
at the commencement of use
Very formal and emphasizes the beginning of the usage period.
on the first occasion of employment
Extremely formal, using words like "occasion" and "employment".
FAQs
How can I rephrase "upon first usage" to sound less formal?
Consider using alternatives like "when you first use it", "the first time you use it", or "at first use". These options are less formal and more suitable for casual contexts.
What is the difference between "upon first usage" and "at first use"?
While both phrases are similar, "upon first usage" is generally considered more formal. "At first use" is slightly less stilted and can be used in a wider range of contexts.
Is it correct to say "on first usage" instead of "upon first usage"?
While "on first usage" might be understood, "upon first usage" is the more grammatically correct and commonly accepted phrasing. "Upon" adds a slightly more formal tone.
When should I use "upon first usage" in my writing?
Use "upon first usage" in situations where you want to establish a slightly formal or technical tone, such as in instructions, manuals, or academic papers. In more casual writing, simpler alternatives might be preferable.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested