give first dibs on vs have first dibs on

Both "give first dibs on" and "have first dibs on" are correct and commonly used phrases in English. They are interchangeable depending on the context, with a slight difference in perspective: "give first dibs on" implies granting someone priority, while "have first dibs on" indicates possessing the priority.

Last updated: March 29, 2024 • 832 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"give first dibs on"

This phrase is used when someone is offering or granting priority to someone else for something, such as an opportunity or choice.

Examples:

I'll give you first dibs on the new product before it's released to the public.
She gave her sister first dibs on choosing the movie for movie night.

Show examples from the web [+]

We'll give them first dibs on the mixed-use space.
I'll give you first dibs on s'mores.
Falcone gives Victor Zsasz first dibs on every new contract.
You give me a first-dibs call on future break-ins?
Because we need to get first dibs on a statement.
I don't get first dibs on anything, but now we are the number one couple.
You know I have first dibs on designer everything.
I had first dibs on your desk.
You get first dibs on customer ups.
I called first dibs on Decker!
You've got first dibs on the angry mob.
Feels like everybody else got first dibs on this one.
Thanks to this generous donor, we've got first dibs on two prime femurs, two sweet tibias, and enough cartilage for a dozen transplants.
I've got first dibs on Owen.
Plus they - they do get first dibs on centerpieces.
In exchange for first dibs on any info we do uncover.
I don't get first dibs on anything, but now we are the number one couple.
Man, I got first dibs on the shower.
As the captain's new art buyer, I have to go schmooze this up-and-coming artist, Strickland Stevens, so we get first dibs on all his new stuff.
Patient siberia gets first dibs on a kidney Because he's some v.I.P. With oodles of cash.

Alternatives:

offer first dibs on
grant first dibs on
provide first dibs on

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"have first dibs on"

This phrase is used when someone is in possession of the priority for something, indicating that they have the first choice or opportunity.

Examples:

I have first dibs on the concert tickets because I bought them early.
She always has first dibs on the best desserts at the party.

Show examples from the web [+]

You know I have first dibs on designer everything.
You can have first dibs on mouth-to-mouth.
Falcone gives Victor Zsasz first dibs on every new contract.
Because we need to get first dibs on a statement.
I don't get first dibs on anything, but now we are the number one couple.
I had first dibs on your desk.
You get first dibs on customer ups.
I wanted you to have first dibs.
I called first dibs on Decker!
You've got first dibs on the angry mob.
Feels like everybody else got first dibs on this one.
We'll give them first dibs on the mixed-use space.
Thanks to this generous donor, we've got first dibs on two prime femurs, two sweet tibias, and enough cartilage for a dozen transplants.
I've got first dibs on Owen.
Plus they - they do get first dibs on centerpieces.
In exchange for first dibs on any info we do uncover.
I'll give you first dibs on s'mores.
I don't get first dibs on anything, but now we are the number one couple.
Man, I got first dibs on the shower.
I just need to feel like I have first dibs.

Alternatives:

possess first dibs on
hold first dibs on
retain first dibs on

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

give first dibs on vs have first dibs on