first

[fɜːst]

first Definition

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

Using first: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "first" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  This is my first time visiting New York City.

• Example

  She was the first person to arrive at the party.

• Example

  The first chapter of the book was very interesting.

• Example

  He finished first in the race.

first Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for first

• earliest
• initial
• inaugural
• maiden
• preliminary

Antonyms for first

• final
• last
• latest

Idioms Using first

• first things first

  a phrase that means you should do things in the order of their importance

  Example

  Let's deal with the most urgent matters first. First things first.

• the first among equals

  a person who has slightly more power or influence than the others in a group of people who are considered to be equal

  Example

  As the CEO, he is the first among equals in the board of directors.

• the first sign of something

  the first indication that something is happening or about to happen

  Example

  The first sign of winter is usually the first snowfall.

Phrases with first

• at first

  at the beginning of a particular period or situation

  Example

  At first, I didn't like the movie, but it grew on me.

• first and foremost

  most importantly

  Example

  First and foremost, we need to ensure the safety of our employees.

• first come, first served

  a system where people are served or dealt with in the order they arrive

  Example

  The tickets are limited, so it's first come, first served.

Origins of first

from Old English 'fyrst'

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Summary: first in Brief

The term 'first' [fɜːst] refers to being earliest or coming before all others in time or order. It can describe anything from a person's initial experience to a winning position in a competition, as in 'He finished first in the race.' Phrases like 'at first' and 'first and foremost' denote the beginning or most important aspects of a situation, while idioms like 'first things first' emphasize prioritization.