first
The word 'first' refers to something that comes before all others in a series, time, or importance. It indicates the starting point of a sequence or the position of a winner in a competition.
Examples
3 of 5She was the first person to arrive at the party.
She was the first person to arrive at the party.
The first applicant will be interviewed at 9:00 AM.
The first applicant will be interviewed at 9:00 AM.
First things first, let's get some coffee before we start working.
First things first, let's get some coffee before we start working.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of the number '1st'. The 'st' at the end of the number is the same as the last two letters of the word 'firST'.
Quick Quiz
January is the ___ month of the year.
Correct!
The correct answer is: first
Examples
She was the first person to arrive at the party.
everydayShe was the first person to arrive at the party.
The first applicant will be interviewed at 9:00 AM.
formalThe first applicant will be interviewed at 9:00 AM.
First things first, let's get some coffee before we start working.
informalFirst things first, let's get some coffee before we start working.
This study provides the first evidence of climate change in this specific region.
academicThis study provides the first evidence of climate change in this specific region.
Our first priority is to increase customer satisfaction by the end of this quarter.
businessOur first priority is to increase customer satisfaction by the end of this quarter.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
first of all
before doing anything else
at first
at the beginning of a situation
first thing in the morning
very early after waking up
Often Confused With
Use 'first' to list items in order; use 'at first' to describe a situation that changed later.
First refers to numerical order, while fast refers to how quickly something moves.
Usage Notes
When 'first' is used as an ordinal number to describe a noun, it almost always requires the definite article 'the'. It can also be used as an adverb at the beginning of a list of instructions.
Common Mistakes
Learners often omit the word 'the' (e.g., saying 'He is first' instead of 'He is the first') or confuse 'first' with 'at first' when starting a sentence.
Memory Tip
Think of the number '1st'. The 'st' at the end of the number is the same as the last two letters of the word 'firST'.
Word Origin
Derived from the Old English word 'fyrst', which meant foremost, most prominent, or beginning.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In many cultures, being 'first' is highly valued and associated with leadership, innovation, and winning.
Quick Quiz
January is the ___ month of the year.
Correct!
The correct answer is: first
Related Grammar Rules
Related Phrases
Related Vocabulary
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