can first be vs can be first

Both "can first be" and "can be first" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "Can first be" is used when emphasizing the order of actions, while "can be first" is used when discussing the possibility of something being in the initial position.

Last updated: March 19, 2024 • 1984 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to emphasize the order of actions.

"can first be"

This phrase is used to highlight the sequence or order in which actions can occur. It is often used to stress the importance of a particular action happening before others.

Examples:

Understanding the basics can first be helpful before moving on to more advanced topics.
Learning to walk can first be challenging, but it gets easier with practice.

Show examples from the web [+]

In cases where it is impractical to test gene function using animal models, genes can first be expressed in bacteria or cell cultures. Similarly, the phenotypes of ...
Levels can first be detected by a blood test about 11 days after conception and about 12-14 days after conception by a urine test. Typically, the hCG levels will ...
Jan 12, 2015 ... Can “first” be used with indefinite article? up vote 2 down vote favorite. 1. I was taught that the word "first" always comes with a definite article ...
Studies have shown that cffDNA can first be observed as early as 7 weeks gestation, and the amount of cffDNA increases as the pregnancy progresses. cffDNA ...

Alternatives:

must first be
should first be
may first be
will first be
could first be

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to discuss the possibility of something being in the initial position.

"can be first"

This phrase is used to talk about the potential for something to be in the first position or to emphasize the option of being first.

Examples:

In a race, anyone can be first if they train hard.
The key to success can be first identifying your goals.

Show examples from the web [+]

Only man cured of HIV says Hawaii can be first state to eradicate virus. Posted: Dec 01, 2015 5:44 PM PST. Tuesday, December 1, 2015 8:44 PM EST. Updated: ...
Only man cured of HIV says Hawaii can be first state to eradicate virus. Most Popular. Stories. Videos. Slideshows. Franklin Graham prays outside Pentagon.
1 day ago ... Which carries can be first picked? (self.learndota2). submitted 34 minutes ago by Androo_. As title says. I presume it's a matter of versatility?
Dec 2, 2015 ... Only man cured of HIV says Hawaii can be first state to eradicate the virus. # WorldAIDSDay. I see dead people. SubscribeSubscribed ...

Alternatives:

can come first
can take the first position
can be in the first place
can lead the pack
can be the initial choice

How TextRanch works

Fast and reliable proofreading, editing, and language advice tailored to your needs.

1. Choose Your Service

Quick Text Editing

Emails and short texts
Proofreading & editing
Ready in 5-10 minutes

SUBMIT YOUR TEXT NOW

Document Editing

Documents of any type (*.docx)
Advanced & Premium editing
Ready in as little as 4 hours

UPLOAD YOUR DOCUMENT

Ask an Editor

Personalized answers to your language questions
Expert guidance on grammar, style, and usage
Ready in 24 hours

ASK YOUR QUESTION

Upload your document or paste your text directly into our platform. Your text is reviewed and refined by our expert editors (real people, not machines) who understand the nuances of English. Expect corrections, improvements, and insightful suggestions that enhance the clarity, tone, and professionalism of your writing.

3. Receive Your Polished Text

In just a few minutes (or hours for longer documents), you'll receive your corrected text. Review the changes, make any final adjustments, and confidently share your polished English with the world.
You can count on a personalized, friendly service every time you use TextRanch. We're committed to helping you make a great impression with every word you write.

We proofread and edit these types of texts and documents:

Short texts Business Emails Personal Emails Social media posts Resume and Curriculum Vitae Business documents Sales proposal Research and academic papers Thesis Dissertation Essays Articles Blog posts and much more....

Why choose TextRanch?

Complete Privacy

Your texts are safe and secure with us. We never share your information with third parties.

Affordable Pricing

No subscription fees and rates up to 50% cheaper than other online editing services.

100% Satisfaction

We guarantee that you'll be satisfied with the quality of our service or your money back.

Top Customer Service

Our team is here to help you with any questions you may have. Contact us anytime.

Our Customers Love Us!

We have an average rating of 4.79 stars based on 283125 votes, and

4.9 Excellent - Reviews 2.137

"7 years without any disappointment. Always 100% satisfied. You guys are the best in the world at what you do. Thank you so much :)"

Zubair
from Bangladesh

"I wasn't aware of this service, it's fascinating and more reliable than standard IA tools available on the internet"

Arturo
from Mexico

"In a world of text messages and online communication, this is great to have as a live tool. Thank you."

Selena
from USA

"Wow, it's just so excellent. I never would have believed I could have a sure and excellent English companion. Thanks, TextRanch."

Ifiok
from Nigeria

"This is my first time using TextRanch, and I like how the editors take time to correct my text. To everyone who has never used TextRanch before, I highly recommend trying it."

Wilson
from France

"It is an amazing source of feedback because, as a non-native speaker, I really need to have a reliable helper correct my text."

Susan
from Germany

can first be vs can be first

"can first be"

"can be first"

Related Comparisons

2. Submit Your Text

3. Receive Your Polished Text