student asking question

Should I always put "the" when I use the word "first"? Is there any other case I can use just "first" without "the"?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

Yes, it is customary to use "the" before "first," especially when you are introducing something with a rank or in a sequence. If you are simply stating a list of things or a number of steps, such as instructions for something, you can use "first," and then introduce the item seperately. Ex: First, we shall wash our hands before cooking. Ex: This is the location of the first Starbucks ever built.

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