“For the first time” is a common phrase we use to describe doing something new or novel. But it can get repetitive using the same phrase over and over. Expanding your vocabulary with synonyms is a great way to keep your writing fresh and engaging.
In this post, we’ll explore 10 alternative ways to say “for the first time” with example sentences. Whether you’re a writer looking to add variety to your work or an English student studying synonyms, this list will give you new options to spice up your speaking and writing.
Is It Bad to Say “For the First Time”?
No, saying “for the first time” is not inherently bad. It’s a very common and understandable way to express doing something for the initial or maiden instance. There’s nothing grammatically or semantically wrong with using the phrase “for the first time.”
Overusing it can sound repetitive or unimaginative in some contexts. But occasional use in casual conversation or informal writing is just fine.
Here is an example sentence using “for the first time”:
“Jane boarded the plane for the first time, feeling both nervous and excited about her initial flight.”
Pros:
- It clearly and efficiently communicates this is Jane’s first time on an airplane. The meaning is straightforward and unambiguous.
- The simplicity of the phrase fits well with the simple narrative style of the sentence. It doesn’t feel overly ornate or poetic.
Cons:
- It sounds a bit plain or uninspired. A substitute like “on her maiden voyage” could paint a more vivid picture.
- It doesn’t fully capture the mixture of emotions Jane is feeling. A rephrase could better convey her nervous excitement about this novel experience.
What to Say Instead of “For the first time”
- Initially
- In the beginning
- To start with
- At the outset
- From the start
- For the inaugural time
- At the inception
- On the initial occasion
- Commencing with
- As a first-time experience
1. Initially
Using “Initially” to express pride conveys a sense of recognizing someone’s achievements or positive qualities from the very beginning of their journey or effort. It implies that the foundation they laid down was impressive and set the tone for their subsequent successes.
Example: Initially, she showed exceptional leadership qualities that truly set her apart. Her ability to inspire her team from the very beginning has been remarkable.
2. In the beginning
“In the beginning” is a phrase that highlights the early stages of someone’s endeavors or contributions, suggesting that their potential or value was evident right from the start. It’s a way to acknowledge that the roots of their achievements were visible early on.
Example: In the beginning, his innovative ideas were already shaping the direction of our project. His foresight and creativity have always been a source of pride for us.
3. To start with
Using “To start with” emphasizes the initial qualities or actions of a person that made you proud, indicating that what followed was built on a strong and admirable foundation.
Example: To start with, her commitment to excellence was unmistakable. This trait alone has propelled her to achieve great things, making us all proud.
4. At the outset
“At the outset” refers to the very start of a period or process, suggesting that the individual’s positive attributes or achievements were apparent from the very beginning, laying a solid groundwork for future accomplishments.
Example: At the outset of his career with us, his work ethic and dedication were already evident. It’s no surprise that he’s accomplished so much since then.
5. From the start
“From the start” implies that the individual’s qualities or achievements were clear and commendable from the very beginning, establishing a consistent pattern of excellence or growth.
Example: From the start, her ability to connect with and understand the needs of our clients was extraordinary. Her empathy and professionalism have always made us proud.
6. For the inaugural time
“For the inaugural time” is a formal way of marking a first occurrence, often used to highlight a significant milestone or achievement that has set a precedent or opened up new possibilities.
Example: For the inaugural time, he led a team to win the national championship, a feat that filled us all with immense pride.
7. At the inception
“At the inception” emphasizes the beginning phase of an endeavor or relationship, suggesting that the seeds of someone’s impressive qualities or achievements were planted early on.
Example: At the inception of her role in the company, her innovative approach was already turning heads. We’ve been proud of her ingenuity since day one.
8. On the initial occasion
“On the initial occasion” is a formal way to denote the first instance of something, often used to commemorate or highlight a notable first achievement or quality that has made a lasting impression.
Example: On the initial occasion of her presentation to the board, her clarity of vision and confidence were striking. It was a moment that made us all proud.
9. Commencing with
“Commencing with” introduces the start of a series or a list, in this context, it can be used to highlight the beginning of someone’s notable achievements or qualities that have made you proud.
Example: Commencing with his early contributions to our community outreach program, his compassion and drive have been an inspiration to us all.
10. As a first-time experience
Using “As a first-time experience” to express pride focuses on the novelty and uniqueness of achievement or quality, emphasizing the courage or innovation it took to venture into new territory.
Example: As a first-time experience, her solo art exhibition was not only a personal milestone but also a testament to her incredible talent, making us incredibly proud.