your first thoughts

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "your first thoughts" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when asking someone to share their initial reactions or opinions on a topic or situation. Example: "After reading the article, I would love to hear your first thoughts on the author's argument."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

What were your first thoughts when the disease was diagnosed?

The New York Times

But to think that your first thoughts are necessarily best is a cruder sort of romanticism.

The Guardian - Books

When you think about the role of technology in children's lives your first thoughts might not necessarily always feel positive.

The Guardian

How did you hear about LIGO's detection of a neutron star merger and what were your first thoughts?

Harvard University

Made of black granite, they're supposedly Tibetan totems once used in fertility rites, but I assure you: your first thoughts when you spot them won't turn to anthropology.

The New York Times - Food

If your first thoughts of Mexico are of drug wars and narco-terrorism, you may have missed out on one of the most improbable cultural resurgences of recent memory, one that has touched filmmaking, art and, now, architecture.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

"When it comes to creation, your first thought is your best thought… Sometimes you are wrong and sometimes you are right, but every time you advance".

Vice

What was your first thought?

The New York Times - Sports

Probably your first thought is: "Rabbits?

The New York Times - Arts

"What's your first thought?" "Car".

The New Yorker

Maybe your first thought involved pizza?

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "your first thoughts" when you want to understand someone's immediate reaction to a specific event, idea, or piece of information.

Common error

While capturing initial reactions can be valuable, remember that "your first thoughts" aren't always the most informed or accurate. Encourage reflection and further analysis to gain a more complete understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "your first thoughts" functions as a prompt for eliciting initial reactions or opinions. It is typically used in questions or statements intended to encourage someone to share their immediate impressions or ideas about a particular topic, as shown in Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

22%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

4%

Encyclopedias

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "your first thoughts" is a commonly used phrase that serves as a prompt to understand someone's immediate reactions or initial perspectives. Ludwig AI affirms that it's grammatically correct and widely applicable across different registers. Analysis of various source categories reveals that it frequently appears in "news & media", "academia", and "science", though it can also be used in more formal settings. Keep in mind that while capturing initial thoughts can be valuable, they may not always be the most accurate. Therefore, encourage reflection to gain a more complete understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initial reactions

Focuses on the immediate emotional or psychological response.

immediate impressions

Emphasizes the initial sensory or cognitive experience.

first impressions

Specifically refers to the initial opinions formed upon encountering something or someone.

preliminary thoughts

Implies a more considered, though still early, set of ideas.

early perceptions

Highlights the initial understanding or interpretation.

initial assessment

Suggests a more formal or analytical evaluation.

first take

An informal way of referring to an initial attempt or perspective.

initial perspective

Highlights an initial point of view or angle.

first inkling

Refers to a vague or uncertain initial idea or feeling.

original contemplation

Emphasizes the act of thinking something over initially.

FAQs

How can I use "your first thoughts" in a sentence?

You can use "your first thoughts" to inquire about someone's initial reaction or opinion, such as "What were "your first thoughts" when you heard the news?" or "After reading this proposal, I'd like to know "your first thoughts"".

What is a more formal alternative to "your first thoughts"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "your initial impressions" or "your preliminary assessment" instead of "your first thoughts".

Are "your first thoughts" always the most accurate?

Not necessarily. "Your first thoughts" represent immediate reactions, which may not always be based on complete information or thorough analysis. Further reflection is often needed.

Is it better to share "your first thoughts" immediately, or take time to consider?

It depends on the context. In casual conversations, sharing "your first thoughts" can be appropriate and spontaneous. However, in professional or sensitive situations, it's often wise to consider your response carefully before sharing your thoughts.