"first" vs "the first"

Question

"first" vs "the first"

Both 'first' and 'the first' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'First' is used when referring to the initial position in a sequence without specifying a particular noun, while 'the first' is used when referring to the initial position in a sequence with a specific noun. The choice between them depends on whether you want to be more general or specific in your description.

Last Updated: March 21, 2024

Use 'first' when you want to refer to the initial position in a sequence in a general way.

Examples:

I was the first to arrive at the party.
She is the first in line for the job.

Alternatives:

initial
beginning
start
earliest
foremost

Use 'the first' when you want to refer to the initial position in a sequence with a specific noun.

Examples:

He is the first person to finish the race.
This is the first time I've seen such a beautiful sunset.

Alternatives:

the initial
the beginning
the start
the earliest
the foremost

Answer 1

first

This is correct when referring to the initial position in a sequence without specifying a particular noun.

Answer 2

the first

This is correct when referring to the initial position in a sequence with a specific noun.

"first" vs "the first"

first

the first

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