TextRanch

The best way to perfect your writing.

Discover why 1,062,726 users count on TextRanch to get their English corrected!

1. Input your text below.
2. Get it corrected in a few minutes by our editors.
3. Improve your English!

One of our experts will correct your English.

Our experts

at the first vs at first

The correct phrase is "at first." It is a common expression used to indicate the initial stage of something. "At the first" is not a correct construction in English.

Last updated: March 22, 2024 • 2537 views

at the first

This is not a correct construction in English.

The correct phrase is "at first," which is used to describe the initial stage or beginning of something.
  • More doctors are waiting at the first garage level.
  • Stop at the first tank beyond town.
  • I will be delighted to fight you at the first opportunity.
  • We didn't train to go spastic at the first sign of trouble.
  • In, a lot of understeer at the first part and...
  • He already has received his payment at the first hour.
  • You call us at the first sign of anything.
  • A little misunderstanding at the first encounter.
  • Driver, stop at the first place en route.
  • I've seen knights panic at the first hint of battle.
  • Take evasive action at the first change of Romulan course.
  • Dropped at the first sign of trouble.
  • We can't give up on her at the first problem we encounter.
  • I want officers at the first stop for each train.
  • An ambush at the first drop point.
  • None of your ancestors were at the first Thanksgiving.
  • The window falls at the first blow.
  • Pay at the first window, please.
  • Experience has shown that simple paint layers are damaged already at the first polishing.
  • Let's have a look at the first photo, then.

Alternatives:

  • initially
  • in the beginning
  • to begin with
  • at the outset
  • at the start

at first

This is the correct phrase to use in English.

Use "at first" to refer to the initial stage or beginning of something.

Alternatives:

  • initially
  • in the beginning
  • to begin with
  • at the outset
  • at the start

Related Comparisons

What Our Customers Are Saying

Our customers love us! We have an average rating of 4.79 stars based on 283,125 votes.
Also check out our 2,100+ reviews on TrustPilot (4.9TextRanch on TrustPilot).

Why choose TextRanch?

Lowest prices
Up to 50% lower than other online editing sites.

Fastest Times
Our team of editors is working for you 24/7.

Qualified Editors
Native English experts for UK or US English.

Top Customer Service
We are here to help. Satisfaction guaranteed!