for the first time vs for a first time

Both "for the first time" and "for a first time" are commonly used phrases in English, but they are used in different contexts. "For the first time" is the correct and more commonly used phrase when referring to something happening for the initial time. On the other hand, "for a first time" could be used in a more specific or limited context, such as when comparing multiple instances of a first time.

Last updated: April 01, 2024 • 1664 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when referring to something happening for the initial time.

"for the first time"

This phrase is used to indicate that something is happening or being done for the initial time.

Examples:

I visited Paris for the first time last summer.
She tried sushi for the first time and loved it.
For the first time in years, he felt truly happy.
They are meeting face to face for the first time.
For the first time, I realized how much I missed her.

Show examples from the web [+]

Request a Social Security number for the first time. Social Security numbers and cards are free.
Apr 7, 2023 ... When applying for the first time or for your child, you will need to provide evidence of U.S. citizenship and photo identification with your ...
Jan 31, 2023 ... What fees should I pay? I'm an adult (16 and older) and I'm applying for the first time.
Nov 15, 2016 ... CRISPR gene-editing tested in a person for the first time · Gene-editing could improve the ability of immune cells to attack cancer. Credit: ...

Alternatives:

for the initial time
for the very first time
for the premiere time
for the debut time
for the opening time

This phrase is correct but less commonly used in English. It could be used in a more specific or limited context, such as when comparing multiple instances of a first time.

"for a first time"

This phrase could be used when referring to a specific or limited instance of a first time, especially when comparing it to other first times.

Show examples from the web [+]

Brilliant. For a first time, especially.
For a first time, you show a lot of potential.
This perfume is great for a first time buyer.
Control panel provides complete management over your voice server, simple and intuitive for a first time visitor.
That doesn't mean it can't happen for a first time.
The exhibition presents a journey full of knitters cognitive and analytical works, relics, and also includes original paintings of the sixteenth century., which are displayed for a first time.
I chose Sapa for my first trek because reviews on travel forums mentioned that it was a relatively easy trek and ideal for a first time trekker.
For example, we are able to produce scripts for a first time call or a two call close script when a potential customer calls you back.
I have covered some of the essential sights, smells and sounds for a first time tourist to the city, as well as some more local gems that can be found off Barcelona's beaten track.
So, end of day, not too bad for a first time out, was it?
For a first time, you show a lot of potential.
For a first time felony offense?
After lunch and a stop in the not so worthy jacuzzi of our hotel room, we go for a first time sightseeing of Mexico City.
This technology was adopted fromceramics processing and used for a first time first for mass production of tungsten filaments at the dawn of the 20th century.

Alternatives:

for one of the first times
for one of the initial times
for one of the very first times
for one of the premiere times
for one of the debut times

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for the first time vs for a first time