Definition of First (meaning 1 of 3 — adjective)
Quick Meaning of First
Coming at the beginning; happening before anything else in a sequence.
Detailed Definition of First
Coming before all others in position, order, or time; earliest.
How to Pronounce First
Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).
Tip: The 'r' after the vowel is pronounced: FURST. Stress on one syllable.
Other Meanings of First
“First” has 3 distinct meanings in English. You’re viewing meaning #1; here are the other 2:
#2 First as a noun
The person or thing that comes in the first position, especially in a competition or race.
come in first
#3 First as an adverb
Coming or happening before all others.
first time
Origin and Etymology of First
From Old English fyrst, from Germanic superlative of 'fore'.
How to Use First in a Sentence
Each example shows “first” in the meaning “Coming at the beginning; happening before anything else…”, with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“This is my first day at the new school.”
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“She won first place in the spelling competition.”
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“The first step is to read the instructions carefully.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of First
Common Synonyms for First
Smart Synonyms for First — When to Use Each
- initial
- in formal or technical writing to mean the
- opening
- when describing an event or statement that begins
Antonyms of First
Common Collocations with First
These phrases pair with “first” in everyday English:
- first place
- first time
- first day
- at first
- first impression
Common Mistakes When Using First
Even fluent speakers slip up with “first”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: This is the first in the competition.
- ✓ Correct: This is first in the competition.
- Why: Omit 'the' before ordinal adjective when used as predicate.
- ✗ Wrong: She arrived at the first time.
- ✓ Correct: She arrived first or at the first opportunity.
- Why: First time requires article and noun; as adverb, use 'first' alone.
Other Forms of First
Frequently Asked Questions About First
What is the meaning of "First"?
Coming at the beginning; happening before anything else in a sequence.
How do you pronounce "First"?
The IPA is /fɜːrst/. The 'r' after the vowel is pronounced: FURST. Stress on one syllable.
What part of speech is "First"?
"First" is an adjective at A1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "First"?
Common synonyms include initial, earliest, opening.
How do you use "First" in a sentence?
For example: "This is my first day at the new school."