Do you want to know the best way to describe the first time you do something?
Perhaps you’re concerned that “first time” isn’t the most appropriate phrase to use.
Well, it’s a good thing you came by this article, then!
After all, we’ll teach you how to say “first time” in other words.
Other Ways to Say “First Time”
- Inaugural
- Debut
- Initial
- Maiden
- Premiere
- Opening
- Primary
- Introductory
- Commencement
- Pioneering
- Primary
- Original
- Beginning
- First-ever
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- “First time” is correct to use when talking about the first instance of something happening.
- “Inaugural” is great to use as a formal synonym if you’re trying to find a suitable way to mix things up.
- Try “debut” for something a bit more informal if that’s more suited to the tone of your writing.
Keep reading to learn another way to say “first time.” We’ve explained more regarding the best formal and informal alternatives from the list above to help you branch out.
You can also read the final section to find out whether it’s correct to say “first time.” Then, you’ll know whether it’s something worth including in the first place.
Inaugural (Formal)
We recommend starting with “inaugural” as another way to say “first time.”
This is a professional choice that often refers to meeting for the first time. It’s an effective choice because most organizations have “inaugural” meetings or events.
Generally, you can use this when writing to your team. It’s a great way to demonstrate that something new is coming, and you want everyone to understand what’s expected.
You can also check out this email sample to learn a bit more about it:
Dear All,
This will be our inaugural meeting with the new developers.
Please come up with some questions to ask them to ensure we get the best deal.
Yours,
Tom Murphy
It’s also smart to use this phrase when talking about a first-time experience. For instance, you can use it when writing a resume to express something you did for the first time.
You can also review this resume sample to learn a bit more about how it works:
It was my inaugural attempt at completing something of this magnitude. I’m proud of the results I received from it.
Debut (Informal)
Feel free to use “debut” when describing doing something for the first time.
This is a fantastic way to sound more informal when discussing your achievements.
For instance, you can use it when contacting a coworker. If you have your first presentation coming up with them, it might be worth reaching out with this.
After all, it keeps things friendly when discussing your plans with them.
So, it’s worth reviewing this email sample to learn a bit more about it:
Hey Max,
This is going to be our debut presentation.
Are you as excited about getting up there as I am?
Yours,
Clara Saunders
You may also use it when writing a resume. It can help you to explain your first time doing something and what skills or experiences you picked up from getting involved.
Feel free to review this sample to learn more about how it can work:
It was my debut working for a company like this, but I feel like I learned a lot from them, and I’m ready to expand my skill set further.
Is It Correct to Say “First Time”?
It is correct to say “first time.”
You can use it professionally if it makes sense in your writing.
Of course, it’s quite a simplistic phrase. It refers to the first instance of something happening (whether that’s in a formal or informal setting).
You will benefit from reviewing this email sample if you need more help understanding it:
Dear Miss Kirk,
This is going to be my first time taking a session.
I’m more than happy to listen to any advice or guidance you might have.
All the best,
Rosie Anderson
Sometimes, you will find the term hyphenated as well. But it’s important to know the difference between the phrases “first time” and “first-time.”
“First time” is a noun. For instance:
- It will be my first time.
However, with a hyphen, “first-time” is an adjective. You should use it before a noun to show the reader what you’re modifying. For example:
- He is a first-time buyer.
Before you go, make sure you bookmark this page! Then, you can remind yourself of the best synonyms for “first time” to help you mix things up when your writing requires it.