a first example vs the first example

Both 'a first example' and 'the first example' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'A first example' is used when introducing any initial example without specifying a particular one, while 'the first example' is used when referring to a specific initial example that has already been mentioned or is known.

Last updated: March 27, 2024 • 3402 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when introducing any initial example without specifying a particular one.

"a first example"

This phrase is used when presenting the first instance of something as an example without emphasizing a specific example. It is more general and can be followed by additional examples.

Examples:

Let me give you a first example of how to solve this math problem.
She provided a first example of a successful marketing campaign.

Show examples from the web [+]

Notably Mars, as a first example.
As a first example, the Commission points out that factors such as unsuitable agricultural and forestry methods can contribute to soil degradation.
In other words, the proposal now on the table reflects this discussion, and as I see it, is also a first example of how we should do things in the future.
A first example of the implementation of the data quality principle consists of the necessary features of the computerised system.
A first example, taken from paragraph 4.2.2 is an information system expanding the European Criminal Records Information System (ECRIS) to cover nationals of non-EU countries.

Alternatives:

an initial example
one example
the first instance
a primary example
a starting example

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when referring to a specific initial example that has already been mentioned or is known.

"the first example"

This phrase is used when referring back to a specific initial example that was previously introduced or is well-known in the context. It implies a level of familiarity or importance.

Examples:

After discussing the theory, let's look at the first example in more detail.
The first example in the textbook illustrates the concept perfectly.

Show examples from the web [+]

Right? So this is the first example.
The proposal submitted today for your approval is the first example insofar as agricultural statistics are concerned.
That really is the first example of benchmarking.
Fresh in all our minds is the Jokela School massacre, which was not the first example of such an occurrence.
This is the first example of the modern use of technology that I can find.
It was the first example of an acquisition of something that is in the public domain.
Maybe this situation with the Kazon is the first example.
Our recent proposal for a European 'Blue Card' for highly skilled migrants is the first example and relevant to the Euromed context.
And if that were successful, that would be the first example of reading a memory from a connectome.
The new legislation is the first example of an "enhanced co-operation procedure" between 14 countries.
The matter at hand is indeed the first example of the increased role of the European Parliament since 1 December 2009.
Just how delicate a matter this is can be seen by the fact that Rome III is the first example in the EU's history of enhanced cooperation conducted in accordance with the procedures laid down in the Treaties.
The cooperation agreement concluded by the European Commission and various EU Member States with Philip Morris International is the first example of this cooperation.
We should be aware that the Euratom Treaty was the first example of a treaty offering protection to the public.
How about you, could you read the first example for the class?
The European Year against Racism is the first example of an agreement between the Community institutions and the Member States with a view to undertaking specific actions to combat racism.
The statement which the Commission included in the report on the Decision - designed to promote the development of long-term exchanges of officials - is the first example of this.
The common position sets its sights high and, if the directive is finally adopted, it will be the first example of legislation to reduce emissions from mobile sources where the same principles are being followed on both sides of the Atlantic.
In fact, the Free Trade Agreement with South Korea is the first example of a new generation of agreements that aim at lowering trade and non-trade barriers and expanding investment prospects in the partner country.
The Bretton Woods system agreed on in 1944 was the first example of a monetary and financial assistance system negotiated between independent states as the basis of their trade relations, and led to the conclusion of the GATT three years later.

Alternatives:

the initial example
the primary example
the starting example
the first instance
the opening example

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a first example vs the first example

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