First Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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first

[fəːst ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

at the beginning

coming before all others in time or order; earliest; 1st

Synonyms

earliest, initial, primary.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
first	This word is commonly used to denote the very beginning in a sequence or order. It is also used to indicate priority or preference. She was the first to arrive at the party First, we need to gather all the materials
earliest	Used to indicate the earliest point in time something happens. It often emphasizes the aspect of time more than order. The earliest record of this event is from 1920 He woke up at the earliest hour to prepare
initial	This word is often used in formal or professional contexts to denote the starting phase or stage of something. During the initial phase of the project, we will conduct research Her initial response was positive
primary	Often used to describe something of main importance or principal in nature. It is used to stress the most important aspect among several. Our primary goal is to increase sales The primary reason for the meeting was to discuss budget cuts

Examples of usage

It was the first time he had ever seen the ocean.
She is the first person to arrive at the party.
The first place winner will receive a prize.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

before anything else; earliest

preceding all others in time, order, or importance

Synonyms

earliest, initial, preliminary.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
first	Used to indicate the person or thing that comes before all others in order, time, or importance. She was the first to arrive at the party. First, we need to gather all the materials.
earliest	Refers to the initial stage or period in time. It talks about the time when something started or appeared. The earliest humans lived thousands of years ago. At the earliest opportunity, we should discuss this issue.
initial	Used to describe something that happens at the beginning of a process or period. The initial phase of the project includes research and planning. His initial reaction was one of surprise.
preliminary	Refers to something that is done in preparation for a main event or activity. It is often used in formal contexts. The preliminary results of the study are promising. We need to conduct some preliminary tests before moving forward.

Examples of usage

He always likes to be the first one to try new things.
This is the first step in the process.
That was the first time I had ever tried sushi.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

rank or position before all others

the person or thing that comes before all others in time, order, or importance

Synonyms

champion, foremost, leader.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
first	Used to describe someone or something that comes before all others in order, time, or importance. She finished first in the race. His book was the first to sell out.
foremost	Indicates someone or something that is in the most prominent or important position, often used in a professional or intellectual context. He is the foremost expert in marine biology. The company is the foremost provider of renewable energy solutions.
leader	Refers to a person who leads or commands a group, organization, or country, often suggesting authority and guidance. She is the leader of the new project team. He was elected as the leader of the political party.
champion	Refers to a person who has won a competition or contest, often used in sports or competitive contexts. She is the national tennis champion. They crowned him champion of the chess tournament.

Examples of usage

She was the first to finish the race.
The first will be last, and the last will be first.
He is the first in line to meet the president.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'first'

The word 'first' is derived from the Old English word 'fyrst', which means 'foremost', 'earliest', or 'leading'. It has been used in the English language for centuries to denote the beginning or initial position. The concept of being first has always held significance in human society, whether in terms of time, rank, or importance. Being first is often associated with achievement, leadership, and success.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #48, this is one of the most fundamental words in English. It's absolutely essential to master this word as it forms the backbone of English communication and appears in almost every conversation or text.

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45 made
46 what
47 under
48 first
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50 very
51 over
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