Definition of first in English:

first

ordinal number fəːstfərst

1Coming before all others in time or order; earliest; 1st.
最先；最早；第一
his first wife
他的第一位妻子。
the first of five daughters
五个女儿中的第一个女儿。
many valuable drugs have been recognized first as poisons
许多珍贵的药物最初都被人当做毒药。
Example sentencesExamples
- In some cases, it was the first time that even wives got to know what their husbands were up to.
- It is hoped to have everything in order for the first performance at the end of November.
- That night, he says, he was asleep, at home in bed with his first wife Liz.
- The set features songs from their first five albums when they were at the height of their creative powers.
- The band took their name from the second track on the first Roxy Music album.
- She added that people must stand up and take the first step in order to garner support from others.
- One of its first orders is to set up special tribunals to try members of the former regime.
- The new vehicle needs to be ordered by the first week in November and with your help they can do it.
- Officers were able to use the new order on the first day it was implemented.
- Aside from switching the order of the first question, this year was no exception.
- His first wife Mary and his 31 year old son are buried together elsewhere in the cemetery.
- The singer had not only helped him release his first album, but had also sung the songs in it.
- No one experienced the ordeal of those first few years more acutely than his first wife, Linda.
- It was, needless to say, one of the first albums I ripped, and I listen to bits of it at least once a week.
- As soon as it reopened, a couple of weeks ago, we were the very first customers to order lunch.
- Tom was telling me that he expects to have his first album ready for release in the Autumn.
- It was made the subject of one of the first building preservation orders made by the council.
- The name first appeared in print as long ago as 1703.
- The comedian has a son and a daughter by his first wife, and three daughters with his second.
Synonyms
earliest, initial, opening, introductory, original
fundamental, basic, rudimentary, primary, beginning, elemental, underlying, basal, foundation
key, cardinal, central, chief, vital, essential
1. 1.1 Never previously done or occurring.
  以前从未做过（或发生过）的
  her first day at school
  她上学的第一天。
  Example sentencesExamples
  Although I had the valuable excuse when it went wrong that this was the first time I'd ever done it.
  Hell, I even did the Su Doku on the back of The Times today for the first time ever.
  For the first time ever, I was on a train where the driver went the wrong way.
  For the first time ever, humanism will be recommended for study by all pupils.
  This will be the first holiday I have ever taken on my own, and I'm quite looking forward to it.
  That was the first time she had ever seen me do anything before an audience and she loved it.
  I am now discovering the merits of a leisurely breakfast for the first time ever.
  Could this be the first coffee morning ever conducted entirely on the internet?
  This is claimed to be the first exhibition ever to show how the self-portrait developed.
  The display of works on paper is the first ever loan exhibition organised by Kettle's Yard.
  But the post made my husband comment for the first time ever and it was worth it just for that.
  I think this is the first wedding I have ever actually looked forward to going to.
  Yup, last night, for the first time ever, I was not at home to put my babies to bed.
  The BBC is set to launch its first ever sports news programme dedicated to children.
  I was walking in the mall and for the first time ever, I needed to sit on a bench just to rest.
  In one week, the number kept in hospital due to social services delays hit zero for the first time ever.
  For the first time ever, local people have been given a forum to express their views.
  For some of them, it was the first time they had ever come across people from different cultures.
  When they had the London shows, it was the first time they'd ever seen a queue outside the venue.
  Synonyms
  first, initial, introductory, initiatory, launching
2. 1.2 Coming or encountered next after a specified or implied time, event, etc.
  （某一时间或某事后的）紧接着来到的
  the first house I came to
  我来到的第一家人家。
  Example sentencesExamples
  The first action in the event of a fire is to put on the gas mask each crewman is issued.
  Acclaimed musician Ben Harper is back with his first studio album in four years.
  The first problem McCall encountered on his return was a severely depleted player roll.
  It is her first solo album in more than 10 years and leaves no room for compromise whatsoever.
  My first encounter with the Humberside police was just two weeks after Christopher died.
  This left Helen and Katy to pick up third in class on their first event together.
  It was the first event in the year so it was a really nice chance for people to catch up.
3. 1.3 Before doing something else specified or implied.
  （在做其他事情以前）先，首先
  Do you mind if I take a shower first?
  我先冲个澡，行吗？
  Example sentencesExamples
  We had to go to Ballina to meet the Bishop first and then back to Bangor again for the marriage.
  Would you like me to make them now, or would your Lordship prefer to hear from Mr K. first?
  Synonyms
  before anything else, first and foremost, firstly, in the first place
  without further ado, now
4. 1.4 For the first time.
  首次，初次，第一次
  she first picked up a guitar out of sheer boredom
  因为百无聊赖，她破天荒地拿起了吉他。
  Example sentencesExamples
  I can remember when this story first emerged.
  One set of accounts suggests that the story first surfaced in Germany in the 1930s.
5. 1.5informal The first occurrence of something notable.
  〈非正式〉首次发生的事
  we travelled by air, a first for both of us
  我们乘飞机旅行了，这对我俩都还是头一回。
  Example sentencesExamples
  Last Monday's Hall of Game was a night of firsts for the Texans, with one notable exception: they failed to pick up their first win.
  Less well known has been his quiet role as vice chairman of Space Adventures, which includes some notable firsts.
  Space missions have always been big TV moments, be they historic firsts, like the moon landing in 1969…
  Zacharias Kunuk has been experiencing a lot of firsts lately.
  Early on, Canadian fighter pilots logged a number of firsts in air combat.
  But for me personally it was an experience of many firsts, beyond nature.
  A hallmark in the history of film-making, the movie had more than one firsts to its credits, what with Lucas dividing his story into three trilogies and deciding to make the second one first as he found it more interesting.
  Bradford has scored a couple of notable firsts, thanks to the efforts of the Bradford Metropolitan Recreation Department, by launching two projects to keep the citizens of Bradford slim and trim.
  On the way over to Hawaii, we experienced so many firsts that we lost count.
  Miss Hall, of Allsprings Drive, Great Harwood, has also achieved several other notable firsts, including becoming the first female member of Accrington Rotary Club.
  York City's 4-1 FA Cup triumph over Radcliffe Borough last Sunday marked a number of notable firsts for the Minstermen.
  This will be many firsts - our first trip with our son, Zack's first flight, his first time seeing mountains, and the longest period of time he has been away from home and hearth.
  Jeff was the man that had experienced all her firsts with her.
  A few other firsts that occurred that night; Hogan lost cleanly for the first time in about eight years.
  When I was with him, I experienced a lot of firsts actually.
  Synonyms
  novelty, new experience, first experience, first occurrence, unusual event
  informal a turn-up for the books
6. 1.6 The first in a sequence of a vehicle's gears.
  （机动车排挡的）头挡
  he stuck the car in first and revved
  他把车挂在头挡，然后开始加速。
  Example sentencesExamples
  Pull both together for neutral and with a foot on the brake you select first.
7. 1.7Baseball First base.
  〔棒球〕第一垒
  he made it all the way home from first
  他成功地从第一垒跑回了本垒。
8. 1.8British The first form of a school or college.
  〈主英〉（学校、学院的）一年级
  Example sentencesExamples
  It was in 1988, my first year in the first grade, and the Blacks used to come on a full tour.
  Paul and Karen have been friends since first grade, but never made it to second base.
  Leah was six and also in first grade, but her gift was in mathematics, and she was at a fifth grade level.
  Sumire sighed, used to the routine she had undergone all during first through eighth grade.
  My parents sent me to sleep away schools since the time I was in first grade.
9. 1.9 A first edition of a book.
  （书的）第一版
  collectors of modern firsts
  Example sentencesExamples
  The aims and compass of this edition have not changed from those of the first.
  For the most part, however, the structure of this edition will be familiar to readers of the first.
2Foremost in position, rank, or importance.
（职位或地位）最高的；首要的，最重要的，第一位的
the doctor's first duty is to respect this right
医生的首要职责是尊重这种权力。
a first prize of £250
I always put myself first
football must come first
足球必须放在首位。
Example sentencesExamples
- The urge for immortality, too, has often been of the first importance to writers.
- There is no life story without fiction, but the story, your life, should come first.
- The quality of life has got to come first above creating ugly urban sprawl.
- My feeling about this statement has always been that it's a shame, but people come first.
- Her reaction left no question in my mind that the grass ought to come first.
- If anything is to be learned from the whole sorry affair, it is that the child must come first.
- A really good king would have been one who accepted that the interests of the great should come first.
- They share the opinion that the customer should come first rather than political egos.
- The judge pointed to prosecution evidence that showed he put safety first.
- My law states that I come first, everybody else has to have second place in my life.
- I must have said that the players come first and looking after them is the most important thing.
- I am a driver myself and I know how difficult it is to park in these streets but surely lives must come first.
- And the very first duty of government is to uphold the law and to make the citizens secure.
- It should be a rigorously independent watchdog whose first duty is to the public interest.
- A surprise visit from inspectors helps a CEO see the importance of putting safety first.
- The Parole Board's first duty is to ensure any prisoner it releases is not a risk to the public.
- Above all, people must feel safe, and that means economic policy must not come first.
- The male lover's career is a conceit that according to the author often has to come first.
- Paxton and Lineen have never lost sight of the fact that sport is fun, and that players come first.
- At the end of the day, everybody's got family and they do have to come first.
Synonyms
foremost, principal, highest, greatest, paramount, top, topmost, utmost, uppermost, prime, chief, leading, main, major
pre-eminent, overriding, outstanding, supreme, premier, predominant, prevailing, most important, of greatest importance, of prime importance
vital, key, essential, crucial, central, core, focal, pivotal, dominant
ruling, head
informal number-one
top, best, prime, premier, superlative
winner's, winning, champion
1. 2.1often with infinitive The most pressing, likely, or suitable.
  最有可能的；最迫切的；最合适的
  he is the first to admit he was not the best of patients
  他是最有可能承认自己不是最好病人的人。
  his first problem is where to live
  他的首要问题是去何处居住。
  Example sentencesExamples
  I'd be the first to admit that networking has been the key to my success in any job or role I've ever had.
  He is the first to admit, however, that this is more an act of God rather than a life plan.
  Fiona is the first to admit that she is impatient when it comes to her home.
  Inbound tourist operators are the first to admit their jobs are the cream of the crop.
  He is the first to admit he is not as hungry for success as he was when he was younger.
2. 2.2 Firstly; in the first place (used to introduce a main point or reason)
  首先，第一（用来引出第一个观点或原因）
  first, it is wrong that the victims should have no remedy
  首先，受害者不应补偿的主张是不对的。
3. 2.3 In preference; rather (used when strongly rejecting a suggestion or possibility)
  （用于坚决拒绝某个建议或可能性时）宁可，宁愿
  she longed to go abroad, but not at this man's expense—she'd die first!
  她渴望出国，但不想用这个男人的钱——死也不想！
  Synonyms
  in preference, more willingly, sooner, rather
4. 2.4 The first finisher or position in a race or competition.
  （比赛或竞赛的）第一名；领先者
  Example sentencesExamples
  Then there's Tom Wilkens, ranked first in the world in '98 in the 200.
  The three disciplines are run back-to-back and the winner is the first athlete to finish.
  In fleet racing, the dominant type at the Olympics, the first to cross the line wins the race.
  He's also timed it so that he's going out as the first finishers in the race are coming in.
  It was so refreshing to hear Latka explain how he had raced from 28th to first and won.
  Schoeman ranked first in the world last year in the 50 meter long course.
5. 2.5Music Performing the highest or chief of two or more parts for the same instrument or voice.
  〔乐〕演唱（或演奏）高声部的
  the first violins
  第一声部小提琴。
  Example sentencesExamples
  I looked up at one point in the middle of the second act, to see something strange going on in the first violins.
  Gradually a permanent nucleus was formed comprising the essential elements of an Orchestra - firsts and seconds, alto, tenor and bass parts, guitar, bayan, piano and percussion.
6. 2.6in titles Having precedence over all others of a similar kind.
  （同类中职务或职称）领先于所有其他人的，比其他人都高的
  First Lord of the Admiralty
  （英国）海军大臣。
7. 2.7British A place in the top grade in an examination, especially that for a degree.
  〈英〉（尤指学位考试中的）优等，最高分；第一名
  chaps with firsts from Oxbridge
  获得牛津和剑桥两所大学最高分的小伙子们。
8. 2.8British A person who has received the top grade in an examination for a degree.
  〈英〉（尤指学位考试中的）优等，最高分；第一名
9. 2.9the firsts The best or main team of a sports club.
  （体育俱乐部的）甲级队；主力队
  he was asked to play for the firsts
  Example sentencesExamples
  David Duxbury's side was cheered on by a good crowd which included most of the firsts from both clubs.
  No matter what level I've played at coaches have always picked me on the firsts.
  Saracens, with a week off from Merit Table games, arranged a pool fixture with Yarnbury firsts and produced a workmanlike performance in difficult conditions to run out comfortable winners.
  I never intended to play on for the firsts, I didn't want to keep coming back, but at the start of the season there was a shortage of props.
  He was scoring 100s for the firsts at age 15 and his ability then was beyond his years.
  The match against RMC loomed as a danger game for the firsts, with the Cadets an unknown quantity and likely to be at full strength.
  Next up is a trip to Emley Moor for the firsts while the second team entertain Dudley Hill Eagles at home.
  Captain Jez Petch returns from holiday, Lee McTigue should be available after missing the last two weeks through work and Mick Storey is elevated to the firsts from last week's ‘A’ team.
  It was the firsts that were so inspiring to watch, after all; that was where the future representatives of our country would be playing and it was something we could always strive to achieve; to play for our school first team.
10. 2.10firsts Goods of the best quality.
  一等品；优等品
  factory firsts, seconds, and discontinued styles
  工厂的一等品、二等品和已不再流行的款式。
3With a specified part or person in a leading position.
以身体的某一部位（或某人）在先（或为首）
the car plunged nose first into the river
它先把鼻子浸到了水里。
Example sentencesExamples
- As soon as I said that a dark figure crashed into the window and fell head first on the floor.
- Down she fell head first onto the floor.
- She got about four steps away when she tripped over her leg rope and fell face first into a puddle.
- She stumbled and tripped, and landed face first on the ground.
- He opened the door to be greeted by Diana falling head first to the ground.
- He was swept off his feet, and landed face first into the dirt.

Phrases

first come, first served

Used to indicate that people will be dealt with strictly in the order in which they arrive or apply.
先到者先受款待（表示严格按先后次序办事）
tickets are available on a first come, first served basis
售票实行先来者先售予的原则。
Example sentencesExamples
- Season ticket holders who wish to sit in this stand must first get a free transfer ticket from the ticket office at least two days before the game and it is strictly first come, first served.
- Due to the high level of interest in the course, applications will be dealt with on a first come, first served basis.
- The Playgroup re-opens on Monday the 5th of September at 9.30 a.m. and places are available on a first come, first served, basis.
- And how are the lists ordered: on the basis of first come, first served?
- All are first come, first served; arrive early on weekends.
- Postcards can't be reserved or paid for in advance, they are allocated on a strictly first come, first served basis on the sale days only.
- It's first come, first served, so please act quickly!
- Seating for the these concerts will be limited and admission is by ticket only on the door at £5.00, first come, first served.
- The open auditions will be run on a first come, first served basis with entrants arriving at the venue by 9.00 am.
- Why can't they just leave the tickets with the professionals and let it be a case of first come, first served, the same as any other major event in the country.

first and foremost

Most importantly; more than anything else.
首要的是，首先
he considered himself first and foremost a writer
Example sentencesExamples
- It was, first and foremost, an exercise in politics rather than sound economic management.
- Cathedrals are, first and foremost, places of worship and are recognised as places of great beauty.
- While she was a singer first and foremost, Tucker is loathe to choose between her two loves.
- It was an act, first and foremost, of solidarity with the victims and of empathy with their families.
- We are police officers first and foremost, and that is our responsibility.
- Since then he has never looked back although he does consider himself to be a Carlow man first and foremost.
- Like everything else Shaker, things had, first and foremost, to be practical.
- I am not a great charity giver, I, like most people, need to protect my family first and foremost.
- Any preconceptions of worthiness are soon put to rest: first and foremost, this is a road movie.
- Cinema is, first and foremost, the projection of a cultural identity which comes to life on the screen.

first and last

Fundamentally; on the whole.
从根本上说，总的来说
museums are first and last about curatorship
博物馆的好坏从根本上说与其馆长的能力有关。
Example sentencesExamples
- I am, first and last and always, concerned about the welfare of people, all kinds of people.
- Feminism's a socialist movement, first and last.
- Rosa Luxemburg roundly declared that freedom was first and last the freedom for those who thought differently.
- There is little point in wallowing in the brilliance of Bacon if you don't recognise him as a moralist first and last.

first of all

1Before doing anything else.
首先；第一次
first of all, let me ask you something
首先，让我问你点事情。
Example sentencesExamples
- We'll get to why he's in a wheelchair in a second, but, first of all, how big is this?
- To understand this let us first of all look at the principles of Sun and Neptune separately.
- This learning would, first of all, be a listening to God's voice in contemplative silence.
- I should ask first of all if he wishes to say anything in response to those submissions?
- Can I just say, first of all, in all honesty, how much I respect what you've done in Lapland in previous years.
- What was the principal difficulty there about delay, first of all in the Sergeant's case?
- Right, first of all do not ask me anything about teenage pregnancy and having trouble in sexual situations.
- Her Honour Justice Branson first of all basically agrees with his Honour Justice Wilcox.
- Well, first of all the cabin is extremely well trimmed, especially if you go for pale grey leather seats and a black carpet.
- Tell us, first of all, about this one picture of this safe that was knocked over.
1. 1.1Most importantly.
  最重要的是
  German unity depends first of all on the German people
  德国的统一首先要靠德国人民。
  Example sentencesExamples
  And the importance of history is first of all it tells you the way the world was.
  My main goal in life, first of all, is to live every day to the fullest, no matter how long that is.
  I did not believe that a man my age, first of all, could fall in love like a teenager.
  Well, I think, first of all, that the fact he lied about his affair is going to hurt him.
  Well, first of all there are nine states that are already doing that in the United States.
  All I really wanted to really talk about was first of all what a relief it is to hear James talking.
  Really, to keep them in optimum state, it is important that they be maintained first of all.
  With gaming, young people can get involved and, first of all, it's a culture where you can belong.
  The advancement of science depends, first of all, on the free flow of information.
  Well, first of all, I never would have allowed it to get out of control the way it did.

first off

informal As a first point; firstly.
〈非正式，主北美〉首先，第一
first off, I owe you a heck of an apology
首先，我真的应该向你道歉。
Example sentencesExamples
- Well, first off there are some pretty sophisticated statistical tricks you can do with the data to make it more reliable.
- They were dying to know what it was going to look like, first off.
- Well, first off, you went and bought the book which is a first step.
- Now, first off, just what makes these outlandish themes reflect reality?
- Give us a sense, first off, where these arms are primarily coming from.
- I think first off, somebody of the things that they're planning should be kept secret and private.
- Well, first off, I think the prevailing theme here is it could have been a lot worse.
- Well, first off I would not recommend an over-the - counter eye drop as the preferred product.
- Well, first off, we've got to talk about a couple of different things.
- Well, first off I'm going to suggest something rather radical: people need to take responsibility for their own sexual health.

first past the post

1(of a contestant, especially a horse) winning a race by being the first to reach the finishing line.
（参赛者，尤指赛马）因第一个到达终点线而获胜
Aliysa was first past the post in the 1989 Oaks
Example sentencesExamples
- Local Claremorris man Finbar Donnellan also had a share in a horse that was first past the post in one of Wednesday's races.
- Boxed in on the final corner by his rivals, he had to pull out all the stops up Cheltenham's notoriously unforgiving hill to ensure that he was first past the post.
- F1 Racing were first past the post in their game at Bay Horse Tadcaster.
- Think Big won the big race twice and Let's Elope and Saintly were amongst two of his other special charges who were first past the post.
- Tales abound of this man who walked 10 miles in his bare feet for cystic fibrosis in 1975 and was first past the post.
- Esha Ness, ridden by John White and trained by Jenny Pitman, was the first past the post but the race was later declared void.
- Kieran was first past the post in the 1500 metres on the Saturday, turning in an excellent time of 5.58.
- If he is first past the post then the victory will put a very serious dent in the profits on bookmakers operating in Ireland.
- It was not always the favourites that came first past the post, which all added to the excitement.
- After two very promising performances it should be only a matter of time before Maryann The Dancer is first past the post.
1. 1.1British attributiveDenoting an electoral system in which a candidate or party is selected by achievement of a simple majority.
  〈英〉（指选举制度）以简单多数票当选的
  our first-past-the-post electoral system
  我们以简单多数票当选的选举制度。
  Example sentencesExamples
  The first past the post system always unfairly rewards the largest parties, but the results become particularly arbitrary when their share of the vote is relatively small.
  These are, of course, first past the post elections, and therefore difficult for us to make a mark on.
  It returns Italy, after 12 years of flirtation with first past the post, to a proportional system.
  We proved under the first past the post system in Preston that we can win.
  The first past the post system won't deliver that.
  But - and it's a very big ‘but’ - under first past the post, the power of government goes to the party of the plurality, to the largest minority.
  We totally accept that no first past the post system is infallible.
  Its genuinely difficult to figure out the Indian voter, and more importantly the first past the post system can make a few percentage difference in vote share seem like a land slide.
  Britain uses the first past the post formula and the candidate receiving the most votes is elected, regardless of whether or not he has a majority of votes cast.
  Secondly, making an electoral breakthrough in a first past the post electoral system remains tough.

first thing

Early in the morning; before anything else.
一大早；要做的第一件事
I have to meet Josh first thing tomorrow
我明天一大早就得去接乔希。
Example sentencesExamples
- He gets fed first thing in the morning before I go to work and again when I get home.
- I needed a drink first thing in the morning and a bag of heroin in the afternoon.
- We have street cleansing teams out from first thing in the morning until late at night.
- I work from home running a small business and need my post first thing in the morning.
- They had the chance to do that either on Friday night or first thing in the morning before we were to set out.
- They stay the night, go to the bank with the boss first thing in the morning and help themselves.
- His father had left lists of producers and agents that he would call first thing in the morning.
- Harry goes for his annual jabs first thing in the morning and I shall need all my wits about me.
- I know that the first thing in the morning I'll be wandering into work on my day off to find it.
- Revise when you want to revise, be it first thing in the morning or late at night.

at first

At the beginning; in the initial stage or stages.
起先，起初，开始时
at first Hugo tried to be patient
开始时，雨果想忍耐一下。
Example sentencesExamples
- He seemed a bit nervous at first but soon settled and gave his usual comic performance.
- You do have to be a bit of a contortionist at first to engage gear, but it is a sportsbike after all.
- The driver had not wanted to take him at first because he was so drunk he had to be supported by three women.
- He was fine at first then complained about not feeling well and went back to bed.
- She's the daughter of an opera singer, and at first she didn't want to go into opera.
- It was difficult to get funding at first but now there is a consortium of people who have put money into it.
- The guy was reluctant at first and refused to come with me, but I could tell he needed my help.
- It can be a bit daunting at first but once they get started and have a go they really enjoy it and learn quickly.
- We were a bit dubious about doing the programme at first, but we really enjoyed making it.
- He was struck by the car as he walked home from a wedding, and at first it was feared he might not survive.
Synonyms
at first, to begin with, at the beginning, at the start, first of all, at the outset, initially

first things first

Important matters should be dealt with before other things.
急事急办
I suggest we get our priorities right—first things first
Example sentencesExamples
- But first things first and that means a result in Bray on Friday.
- We'll talk a lot about the book and your extraordinary story, but let's first deal with first things first.
- A proper education enables young people to put their lives in order, which means knowing which things are more important than other things; it means putting first things first.
- Let's deal with first things first, and the thing that's getting the most attention is the headline grabber.
- But first things first, you have to have other goals first, just getting in there and getting game time is the first step.
- So, first things first, I really liked Star Wars.
- So there is a lot to be done, but first things first.
- I believe that this is putting the horse before the cart, practicing first things first and the value-added benefit to this approach will spell returns in the short run too.
- But first things first - he knows he'd better make good on his campaign promise and fix that village road.
- We'll talk a lot about the book in a little while, but first let's get to first things first, and that's the major story of the day, Andy, and what do you make of the inspectors?

first up
〔棒球〕第一垒

1First of all.
首先，第一
Example sentencesExamples
- Can I just say first up that as far as the state of play in journalism is concerned, I actually think things aren't so bad.
- So first up, how long have you been working here (probably not long cos the bar's just opened)!
- That means that this motion will in fact be debated first up.
- They fielded well first up to dismiss the Razzle for 171.
- Miriama Kamo presents the mix of local and US tales - first up, a story about US swingers, and Pete Cronshaw investigates a Coromandel property developer.
- So first up, what kind of show is he bringing down under?
- But there are some key things the most successful websites have in common - first up, they are simple, have content the people want to read and it has to be current.
- And when I read it first up, I thought ‘That doesn't seem real.’
1. 1.1Australian NZ At the first attempt.
  首次，初次，第一次
  Example sentencesExamples
  They had been beaten in the first round last year but came out strong by winning their first up match convincingly.
  Wilson had beaten Damian Smith first up, then both David Wilson and me in cover, before George knocked the ball from his hands with that despairing late dive.
  But this year both have hit the ground first up with viewers, unusual for Seven and a worry for Nine if it continues.
  You would not have to undergo the painful trial and error process of learning how to shave, one of your old men could show you the correct way first up.
  A first up Saturday game against Sandringham gave the team an idea of what it was in for.
  Of course this countries attention was on the first up game, also known as NZ v SA.
  Dalton says they have drawn Oracle first up which will be a good wake up call.
  A goal to midfielder Heather Garriock in the first half proved the difference as the team set about playing with a bit more flair than in their stodgy first up loss to the Brazilians.

from the (very) first

From the beginning.
he should have realized it from the first
他一开始就应当认识到这一点。
Example sentencesExamples
- He had been an easy delivery and Erin loved her little boy from the very first.
- I know that that is what God had intended from the very first.
- The central problems of the Empire, present from the very first, were revealed plainly in the crisis.
- It was a genius that Bolzano saw from the very first.
- When we notice the geese afresh we realize, as Ma Tsu says, they've been there from the very first.
- They were encouraged from the first to be scrupulous in their use of various powers.
- Siegfried, his head grader driver, ran one crew while Steve, who'd been with him from the very first, oversaw the other.
- It is true to say that, from the first, the country's attitude to Europe has been ambivalent.
- She was headstrong and determined to have her way from the very first.
- No wonder I'd felt connected to Antonio from the very first.
Synonyms
the beginning, the very beginning, the start, the outset, the commencement

from first to last

From beginning to end; throughout.
从头至尾，自始至终；彻底地，完全地
it's a fine performance that commands attention from first to last
这是一场精彩的演出，自始至终抓住了观众的注意力。
Example sentencesExamples
- There's been unbroken sunshine from first to last, with barely a token cloud in the sky.
- Mr Donne said: ‘A very clear thread runs through this case, the thread of the aggression of these three men from first to last.’
- Clyde were totally dominant from first to last in a game Celtic fans must have been begging to end.
- Her whole speech was a success from first to last, an appropriate effort.
- On paper, Aberdeen seemed inadequately equipped to slug it out with O'Neill's team, but their commitment was ferocious from first to last.
- As regards the plaintiff, he has been wrong from first to last.
- Playing three groups ahead of the leaders and experiencing the same difficult conditions, Olazabal was quite something, his putting breathtaking from first to last.
- They weren't always enthusiastic supporters; they were skeptical from first to last.
- It was into the second half before the important second goal arrived, but Hibs were dominant from first to last.
- By contrast, Thomas Otway's Venice Preserved commands our aesthetic and political attention from first to last.

in the first place

1As the first consideration or point.
首先，第一
political reality was not quite that simple—in the first place, divisions existed within the parties
政治现实远非那么简单——首先，党内存在着分歧。
Example sentencesExamples
- To answer this we must consider whether Doris's acceptance is valid in the first place.
- That was one of the primary issues that prompted the application in the first place.
- It wasn't as if the Mini was an especially greedy consumer of petrol in the first place.
- None of the new measures seem to consider addressing the main cause of the problem in the first place.
- He's right, but he's got a nerve considering his party broke that link in the first place.
- This is, in fact, one of the principle reasons the Top Table was created in the first place.
- He refers to one recent study which considers the reasons why bloggers blog in the first place.
Synonyms
in addition to, as well as, over and above
1. 1.1At the beginning; to begin with.
  I should have told you in the first place
  我本应一开始就告诉你的。
  Example sentencesExamples
  Having made an issue of the attacks in the first place, they now say that this is nothing for us to worry about.
  If you believe you have been misled complain to the company or person who sold you the plan in the first place.
  By the way, why do you feel the need to mention the fact that you carry a knife in the first place?
  The hard thing, as I'm finding out, is getting the people in there in the first place.
  Sadly, it also gave me the chance to remember why we had lost touch in the first place.
  It is always important to remind ourselves who created this state of affairs in the first place.
  What makes me feel so really stupid is how I actually managed to begin smoking in the first place.
  If he didn't think Scott was good enough, why did he pick him in the first place?
  He is so loving and kind that I immediately remember why I fell in love with him in the first place.
  When it was all over, I re-read the play to try and see what it was that had made me write it in the first place.

of the first order (or magnitude)

Excellent or considerable of its kind.
头等的，最高级的；头等重要的
it is a media event of the first order
这是头等新闻事件。
Example sentencesExamples
- His achievement, though easily taken for granted, was the work of an analytical mind of the first order, and he deserves much more honor than he has so far received.
- Then there's Bernov's trademark balalaika-bass, a four-stringed oddity of the first order, pictured above for your amusement.
- It was a disaster of the first order, but Daun was still wary of the ever-aggressive Frederick, with reason.
- Sarris calls the film ‘a masterpiece of the first order.’
- But to say that it's all going to come out fine, that always struck me as being wishful thinking of the first order.
- Is this wickedness of the first order or rational economic behaviour?
- Warming up, he says: ‘The transatlantic relationship remains an asset of the first order.’
- While I am a technology fanatic of the first order, I see the future of high-wage nations largely as services-driven.
- However, the overall campaign was a disaster of the first order.
- We have been waiting for this recording for years and now that it is here, one can safely say that it is indeed a masterpiece of the first order.
Synonyms
of the utmost importance, of the greatest significance, very important, of importance, of significance, of note, of great moment, of great consequence

Origin

Old English fyr(e)st; of Germanic origin, related to Old Norse fyrstr and German Fürst 'prince', from an Indo-European root shared by Sanskrit prathama, Latin primus, and Greek prōtos.

The Old English word first goes back to an ancient root which is shared by Latin primus (as in prime), and Greek prōtos (as in protein (mid 19th century) and prototype (mid 16th century)). The expression first come, first served goes back to the Middle Ages and is found in the poetry of Geoffrey Chaucer. It was originally used in the context of milling, when a mill would serve the whole community. The first person to bring their corn to the mill would be the first person to have it ground. The first among equals is the member of a group that has the highest status. It is a translation of the Latin phrase primus inter pares, which was used as a title by Roman emperors. Many will know it today as the title of a Jeffrey Archer novel published in 1984. In Scotland to first-foot (early 19th century) is to be the first person to cross the threshold of a house in the New Year. Traditionally, it is thought lucky for that person to be a dark-haired man.

Rhymes

accursed, burst, curst, erst, headfirst, Hurst, thirst, under-rehearsed, unrehearsed, unversed, verst, worst, wurst

Definition of first in US English:

first

ordinal numberfərstfərst

1Coming before all others in time or order; earliest; 1st.
最先；最早；第一
his first wife
他的第一位妻子。
the first of five daughters
五个女儿中的第一个女儿。
Example sentencesExamples
- No one experienced the ordeal of those first few years more acutely than his first wife, Linda.
- The set features songs from their first five albums when they were at the height of their creative powers.
- The singer had not only helped him release his first album, but had also sung the songs in it.
- The name first appeared in print as long ago as 1703.
- It is hoped to have everything in order for the first performance at the end of November.
- In some cases, it was the first time that even wives got to know what their husbands were up to.
- It was made the subject of one of the first building preservation orders made by the council.
- Tom was telling me that he expects to have his first album ready for release in the Autumn.
- It was, needless to say, one of the first albums I ripped, and I listen to bits of it at least once a week.
- She added that people must stand up and take the first step in order to garner support from others.
- Officers were able to use the new order on the first day it was implemented.
- As soon as it reopened, a couple of weeks ago, we were the very first customers to order lunch.
- His first wife Mary and his 31 year old son are buried together elsewhere in the cemetery.
- Aside from switching the order of the first question, this year was no exception.
- One of its first orders is to set up special tribunals to try members of the former regime.
- The band took their name from the second track on the first Roxy Music album.
- The comedian has a son and a daughter by his first wife, and three daughters with his second.
- That night, he says, he was asleep, at home in bed with his first wife Liz.
- The new vehicle needs to be ordered by the first week in November and with your help they can do it.
Synonyms
earliest, initial, opening, introductory, original
fundamental, basic, rudimentary, primary, beginning, elemental, underlying, basal, foundation
1. 1.1 Never previously done or occurring.
  以前从未做过（或发生过）的
  her first day at school
  她上学的第一天。
  Example sentencesExamples
  For the first time ever, humanism will be recommended for study by all pupils.
  Although I had the valuable excuse when it went wrong that this was the first time I'd ever done it.
  Could this be the first coffee morning ever conducted entirely on the internet?
  Hell, I even did the Su Doku on the back of The Times today for the first time ever.
  This is claimed to be the first exhibition ever to show how the self-portrait developed.
  This will be the first holiday I have ever taken on my own, and I'm quite looking forward to it.
  I was walking in the mall and for the first time ever, I needed to sit on a bench just to rest.
  For the first time ever, I was on a train where the driver went the wrong way.
  The BBC is set to launch its first ever sports news programme dedicated to children.
  The display of works on paper is the first ever loan exhibition organised by Kettle's Yard.
  For the first time ever, local people have been given a forum to express their views.
  That was the first time she had ever seen me do anything before an audience and she loved it.
  Yup, last night, for the first time ever, I was not at home to put my babies to bed.
  I am now discovering the merits of a leisurely breakfast for the first time ever.
  When they had the London shows, it was the first time they'd ever seen a queue outside the venue.
  In one week, the number kept in hospital due to social services delays hit zero for the first time ever.
  For some of them, it was the first time they had ever come across people from different cultures.
  I think this is the first wedding I have ever actually looked forward to going to.
  But the post made my husband comment for the first time ever and it was worth it just for that.
  Synonyms
  first, initial, introductory, initiatory, launching
2. 1.2 Coming next after a specified or implied time or occurrence.
  （某一时间或某事后的）紧接着来到的
  I didn't take the first bus
  我没有乘坐首班车。
  Example sentencesExamples
  It is her first solo album in more than 10 years and leaves no room for compromise whatsoever.
  The first problem McCall encountered on his return was a severely depleted player roll.
  This left Helen and Katy to pick up third in class on their first event together.
  Acclaimed musician Ben Harper is back with his first studio album in four years.
  My first encounter with the Humberside police was just two weeks after Christopher died.
  It was the first event in the year so it was a really nice chance for people to catch up.
  The first action in the event of a fire is to put on the gas mask each crewman is issued.
3. 1.3 Met with or encountered before any others.
  最早（或最先）遭遇到的
  the first house I came to
  我来到的第一家人家。
4. 1.4 Originally.
  many valuable drugs have been recognized first as poisons
  许多珍贵的药物最初都被人当做毒药。
5. 1.5 Before doing something else specified or implied.
  （在做其他事情以前）先，首先
  Do you mind if I take a shower first?
  我先冲个澡，行吗？
  Example sentencesExamples
  We had to go to Ballina to meet the Bishop first and then back to Bangor again for the marriage.
  Would you like me to make them now, or would your Lordship prefer to hear from Mr K. first?
  Synonyms
  before anything else, first and foremost, firstly, in the first place
6. 1.6 For the first time.
  首次，初次，第一次
  she first picked up a guitar out of sheer boredom
  因为百无聊赖，她破天荒地拿起了吉他。
  Example sentencesExamples
  I can remember when this story first emerged.
  One set of accounts suggests that the story first surfaced in Germany in the 1930s.
7. 1.7 Firstly; in the first place (used to introduce a first point or reason)
  首先，第一（用来引出第一个观点或原因）
  first, it is wrong that the victims should have no remedy
  首先，受害者不应补偿的主张是不对的。
8. 1.8 In preference; rather (used when strongly rejecting a suggestion or possibility)
  （用于坚决拒绝某个建议或可能性时）宁可，宁愿
  she longed to go abroad, but not at this man's expense—she'd die first!
  她渴望出国，但不想用这个男人的钱——死也不想！
  Synonyms
  in preference, more willingly, sooner, rather
9. 1.9informal The first occurrence of something notable.
  〈非正式〉首次发生的事
  we traveled by air, a first for both of us
  我们乘飞机旅行了，这对我俩都还是头一回。
  Example sentencesExamples
  Zacharias Kunuk has been experiencing a lot of firsts lately.
  Space missions have always been big TV moments, be they historic firsts, like the moon landing in 1969…
  Miss Hall, of Allsprings Drive, Great Harwood, has also achieved several other notable firsts, including becoming the first female member of Accrington Rotary Club.
  Jeff was the man that had experienced all her firsts with her.
  York City's 4-1 FA Cup triumph over Radcliffe Borough last Sunday marked a number of notable firsts for the Minstermen.
  When I was with him, I experienced a lot of firsts actually.
  This will be many firsts - our first trip with our son, Zack's first flight, his first time seeing mountains, and the longest period of time he has been away from home and hearth.
  A few other firsts that occurred that night; Hogan lost cleanly for the first time in about eight years.
  On the way over to Hawaii, we experienced so many firsts that we lost count.
  Early on, Canadian fighter pilots logged a number of firsts in air combat.
  Bradford has scored a couple of notable firsts, thanks to the efforts of the Bradford Metropolitan Recreation Department, by launching two projects to keep the citizens of Bradford slim and trim.
  A hallmark in the history of film-making, the movie had more than one firsts to its credits, what with Lucas dividing his story into three trilogies and deciding to make the second one first as he found it more interesting.
  But for me personally it was an experience of many firsts, beyond nature.
  Last Monday's Hall of Game was a night of firsts for the Texans, with one notable exception: they failed to pick up their first win.
  Less well known has been his quiet role as vice chairman of Space Adventures, which includes some notable firsts.
  Synonyms
  novelty, new experience, first experience, first occurrence, unusual event
10. 1.10 The first in a sequence of a vehicle's gears.
  （机动车排挡的）头挡
  he stuck the car in first and revved
  他把车挂在头挡，然后开始加速。
  Example sentencesExamples
  Pull both together for neutral and with a foot on the brake you select first.
11. 1.11Baseball First base.
  〔棒球〕第一垒
  he made it all the way home from first
  他成功地从第一垒跑回了本垒。
12. 1.12British The first grade of a school.
  〈主英〉（学校、学院的）一年级
  Example sentencesExamples
  Paul and Karen have been friends since first grade, but never made it to second base.
  Leah was six and also in first grade, but her gift was in mathematics, and she was at a fifth grade level.
  It was in 1988, my first year in the first grade, and the Blacks used to come on a full tour.
  My parents sent me to sleep away schools since the time I was in first grade.
  Sumire sighed, used to the routine she had undergone all during first through eighth grade.
13. 1.13 A first edition of a book.
  （书的）第一版
  collectors of modern firsts
  Example sentencesExamples
  The aims and compass of this edition have not changed from those of the first.
  For the most part, however, the structure of this edition will be familiar to readers of the first.
2Foremost in position, rank, or importance.
（职位或地位）最高的；首要的，最重要的，第一位的
the doctor's first duty is to respect this right
医生的首要职责是尊重这种权力。
I always put myself first
football must come first
足球必须放在首位。
Example sentencesExamples
- My law states that I come first, everybody else has to have second place in my life.
- If anything is to be learned from the whole sorry affair, it is that the child must come first.
- I am a driver myself and I know how difficult it is to park in these streets but surely lives must come first.
- Paxton and Lineen have never lost sight of the fact that sport is fun, and that players come first.
- A surprise visit from inspectors helps a CEO see the importance of putting safety first.
- The male lover's career is a conceit that according to the author often has to come first.
- Her reaction left no question in my mind that the grass ought to come first.
- They share the opinion that the customer should come first rather than political egos.
- At the end of the day, everybody's got family and they do have to come first.
- The judge pointed to prosecution evidence that showed he put safety first.
- It should be a rigorously independent watchdog whose first duty is to the public interest.
- And the very first duty of government is to uphold the law and to make the citizens secure.
- The urge for immortality, too, has often been of the first importance to writers.
- My feeling about this statement has always been that it's a shame, but people come first.
- The Parole Board's first duty is to ensure any prisoner it releases is not a risk to the public.
- The quality of life has got to come first above creating ugly urban sprawl.
- A really good king would have been one who accepted that the interests of the great should come first.
- I must have said that the players come first and looking after them is the most important thing.
- There is no life story without fiction, but the story, your life, should come first.
- Above all, people must feel safe, and that means economic policy must not come first.
Synonyms
foremost, principal, highest, greatest, paramount, top, topmost, utmost, uppermost, prime, chief, leading, main, major
top, best, prime, premier, superlative
1. 2.1often with infinitive The most likely, pressing, or suitable.
  最有可能的；最迫切的；最合适的
  he is the first to admit he was not the best of patients
  他是最有可能承认自己不是最好病人的人。
  his first problem is where to live
  他的首要问题是去何处居住。
  Example sentencesExamples
  He is the first to admit he is not as hungry for success as he was when he was younger.
  I'd be the first to admit that networking has been the key to my success in any job or role I've ever had.
  Inbound tourist operators are the first to admit their jobs are the cream of the crop.
  He is the first to admit, however, that this is more an act of God rather than a life plan.
  Fiona is the first to admit that she is impatient when it comes to her home.
2. 2.2 The first finisher or position in a race or competition.
  （比赛或竞赛的）第一名；领先者
  Example sentencesExamples
  It was so refreshing to hear Latka explain how he had raced from 28th to first and won.
  In fleet racing, the dominant type at the Olympics, the first to cross the line wins the race.
  He's also timed it so that he's going out as the first finishers in the race are coming in.
  The three disciplines are run back-to-back and the winner is the first athlete to finish.
  Then there's Tom Wilkens, ranked first in the world in '98 in the 200.
  Schoeman ranked first in the world last year in the 50 meter long course.
3. 2.3Music Performing the highest or chief of two or more parts for the same instrument or voice.
  〔乐〕演唱（或演奏）高声部的
  the first violins
  第一声部小提琴。
  Example sentencesExamples
  Gradually a permanent nucleus was formed comprising the essential elements of an Orchestra - firsts and seconds, alto, tenor and bass parts, guitar, bayan, piano and percussion.
  I looked up at one point in the middle of the second act, to see something strange going on in the first violins.
4. 2.4British A place in the top grade in an examination, especially that for a degree.
  〈英〉（尤指学位考试中的）优等，最高分；第一名
  he took a first in Classics
5. 2.5British A person having achieved a top grade in an examination.
  〈英〉优等生
6. 2.6firsts Goods of the best quality.
  一等品；优等品
  factory firsts, seconds, and discontinued styles
  工厂的一等品、二等品和已不再流行的款式。
3With a specified part or person in a leading position.
以身体的某一部位（或某人）在先（或为首）
it plunged nose first into the river
它先把鼻子浸到了水里。
Example sentencesExamples
- He was swept off his feet, and landed face first into the dirt.
- He opened the door to be greeted by Diana falling head first to the ground.
- She stumbled and tripped, and landed face first on the ground.
- Down she fell head first onto the floor.
- She got about four steps away when she tripped over her leg rope and fell face first into a puddle.
- As soon as I said that a dark figure crashed into the window and fell head first on the floor.

Usage

First, second, third, etc., are adverbs as well as adjectives: first, dice three potatoes; second, add the bouillon. Firstly, secondly, etc., are also correct, but make sure not to mix the two groups: first, second, third; not first, secondly, thirdly. See also former

Phrases

at first

At the beginning; in the initial stage or stages.
起先，起初，开始时
at first Hugh tried to be patient
开始时，雨果想忍耐一下。
Example sentencesExamples
- He was struck by the car as he walked home from a wedding, and at first it was feared he might not survive.
- It was difficult to get funding at first but now there is a consortium of people who have put money into it.
- He seemed a bit nervous at first but soon settled and gave his usual comic performance.
- The driver had not wanted to take him at first because he was so drunk he had to be supported by three women.
- It can be a bit daunting at first but once they get started and have a go they really enjoy it and learn quickly.
- We were a bit dubious about doing the programme at first, but we really enjoyed making it.
- You do have to be a bit of a contortionist at first to engage gear, but it is a sportsbike after all.
- The guy was reluctant at first and refused to come with me, but I could tell he needed my help.
- She's the daughter of an opera singer, and at first she didn't want to go into opera.
- He was fine at first then complained about not feeling well and went back to bed.
Synonyms
at first, to begin with, at the beginning, at the start, first of all, at the outset, initially

first come, first served

Used to indicate that people will be dealt with in the order in which they arrive or apply.
先到者先受款待（表示严格按先后次序办事）
tickets are available on a first come, first served basis
售票实行先来者先售予的原则。
Example sentencesExamples
- Seating for the these concerts will be limited and admission is by ticket only on the door at £5.00, first come, first served.
- The open auditions will be run on a first come, first served basis with entrants arriving at the venue by 9.00 am.
- Postcards can't be reserved or paid for in advance, they are allocated on a strictly first come, first served basis on the sale days only.
- All are first come, first served; arrive early on weekends.
- And how are the lists ordered: on the basis of first come, first served?
- It's first come, first served, so please act quickly!
- The Playgroup re-opens on Monday the 5th of September at 9.30 a.m. and places are available on a first come, first served, basis.
- Why can't they just leave the tickets with the professionals and let it be a case of first come, first served, the same as any other major event in the country.
- Due to the high level of interest in the course, applications will be dealt with on a first come, first served basis.
- Season ticket holders who wish to sit in this stand must first get a free transfer ticket from the ticket office at least two days before the game and it is strictly first come, first served.

first and foremost

Most importantly; more than anything else.
首要的是，首先
I'm first and foremost a writer
Example sentencesExamples
- Cinema is, first and foremost, the projection of a cultural identity which comes to life on the screen.
- We are police officers first and foremost, and that is our responsibility.
- It was, first and foremost, an exercise in politics rather than sound economic management.
- Any preconceptions of worthiness are soon put to rest: first and foremost, this is a road movie.
- Since then he has never looked back although he does consider himself to be a Carlow man first and foremost.
- I am not a great charity giver, I, like most people, need to protect my family first and foremost.
- While she was a singer first and foremost, Tucker is loathe to choose between her two loves.
- Like everything else Shaker, things had, first and foremost, to be practical.
- Cathedrals are, first and foremost, places of worship and are recognised as places of great beauty.
- It was an act, first and foremost, of solidarity with the victims and of empathy with their families.

first and last
〔棒球〕第一垒

Fundamentally; on the whole.
从根本上说，总的来说
museums are first and last about curatorship
博物馆的好坏从根本上说与其馆长的能力有关。
Example sentencesExamples
- I am, first and last and always, concerned about the welfare of people, all kinds of people.
- Rosa Luxemburg roundly declared that freedom was first and last the freedom for those who thought differently.
- Feminism's a socialist movement, first and last.
- There is little point in wallowing in the brilliance of Bacon if you don't recognise him as a moralist first and last.

first of all
首先，第一

1Before doing anything else; at the beginning.
首先；第一次
first of all, let me ask you something
首先，让我问你点事情。
Example sentencesExamples
- What was the principal difficulty there about delay, first of all in the Sergeant's case?
- Right, first of all do not ask me anything about teenage pregnancy and having trouble in sexual situations.
- This learning would, first of all, be a listening to God's voice in contemplative silence.
- Well, first of all the cabin is extremely well trimmed, especially if you go for pale grey leather seats and a black carpet.
- Tell us, first of all, about this one picture of this safe that was knocked over.
- We'll get to why he's in a wheelchair in a second, but, first of all, how big is this?
- Can I just say, first of all, in all honesty, how much I respect what you've done in Lapland in previous years.
- To understand this let us first of all look at the principles of Sun and Neptune separately.
- Her Honour Justice Branson first of all basically agrees with his Honour Justice Wilcox.
- I should ask first of all if he wishes to say anything in response to those submissions?
1. 1.1Most importantly.
  最重要的是
  German unity depends first of all on the German people
  德国的统一首先要靠德国人民。
  Example sentencesExamples
  Well, first of all, I never would have allowed it to get out of control the way it did.
  Well, I think, first of all, that the fact he lied about his affair is going to hurt him.
  And the importance of history is first of all it tells you the way the world was.
  I did not believe that a man my age, first of all, could fall in love like a teenager.
  My main goal in life, first of all, is to live every day to the fullest, no matter how long that is.
  The advancement of science depends, first of all, on the free flow of information.
  Really, to keep them in optimum state, it is important that they be maintained first of all.
  All I really wanted to really talk about was first of all what a relief it is to hear James talking.
  Well, first of all there are nine states that are already doing that in the United States.
  With gaming, young people can get involved and, first of all, it's a culture where you can belong.

first off
首先，第一

informal As a first point; first of all.
〈非正式，主北美〉首先，第一
first off, I owe you a heck of an apology
首先，我真的应该向你道歉。
Example sentencesExamples
- Give us a sense, first off, where these arms are primarily coming from.
- Well, first off I would not recommend an over-the - counter eye drop as the preferred product.
- Now, first off, just what makes these outlandish themes reflect reality?
- Well, first off, I think the prevailing theme here is it could have been a lot worse.
- They were dying to know what it was going to look like, first off.
- Well, first off there are some pretty sophisticated statistical tricks you can do with the data to make it more reliable.
- I think first off, somebody of the things that they're planning should be kept secret and private.
- Well, first off I'm going to suggest something rather radical: people need to take responsibility for their own sexual health.
- Well, first off, we've got to talk about a couple of different things.
- Well, first off, you went and bought the book which is a first step.

first past the post

1(of a contestant, especially a horse, in a race) winning a race by being the first to reach the finish line.
（参赛者，尤指赛马）因第一个到达终点线而获胜
Example sentencesExamples
- It was not always the favourites that came first past the post, which all added to the excitement.
- Think Big won the big race twice and Let's Elope and Saintly were amongst two of his other special charges who were first past the post.
- Local Claremorris man Finbar Donnellan also had a share in a horse that was first past the post in one of Wednesday's races.
- Tales abound of this man who walked 10 miles in his bare feet for cystic fibrosis in 1975 and was first past the post.
- Esha Ness, ridden by John White and trained by Jenny Pitman, was the first past the post but the race was later declared void.
- If he is first past the post then the victory will put a very serious dent in the profits on bookmakers operating in Ireland.
- Boxed in on the final corner by his rivals, he had to pull out all the stops up Cheltenham's notoriously unforgiving hill to ensure that he was first past the post.
- After two very promising performances it should be only a matter of time before Maryann The Dancer is first past the post.
- F1 Racing were first past the post in their game at Bay Horse Tadcaster.
- Kieran was first past the post in the 1500 metres on the Saturday, turning in an excellent time of 5.58.
1. 1.1British attributiveDenoting an electoral system in which a candidate or party is selected by achievement of a simple majority.
  〈英〉（指选举制度）以简单多数票当选的
  our first-past-the-post electoral system
  我们以简单多数票当选的选举制度。
  Example sentencesExamples
  It returns Italy, after 12 years of flirtation with first past the post, to a proportional system.
  These are, of course, first past the post elections, and therefore difficult for us to make a mark on.
  We totally accept that no first past the post system is infallible.
  Britain uses the first past the post formula and the candidate receiving the most votes is elected, regardless of whether or not he has a majority of votes cast.
  But - and it's a very big ‘but’ - under first past the post, the power of government goes to the party of the plurality, to the largest minority.
  Secondly, making an electoral breakthrough in a first past the post electoral system remains tough.
  The first past the post system always unfairly rewards the largest parties, but the results become particularly arbitrary when their share of the vote is relatively small.
  Its genuinely difficult to figure out the Indian voter, and more importantly the first past the post system can make a few percentage difference in vote share seem like a land slide.
  We proved under the first past the post system in Preston that we can win.
  The first past the post system won't deliver that.

first thing

Early in the morning; before anything else.
一大早；要做的第一件事
I have to meet Josh first thing tomorrow
我明天一大早就得去接乔希。
Example sentencesExamples
- They had the chance to do that either on Friday night or first thing in the morning before we were to set out.
- I needed a drink first thing in the morning and a bag of heroin in the afternoon.
- Revise when you want to revise, be it first thing in the morning or late at night.
- We have street cleansing teams out from first thing in the morning until late at night.
- They stay the night, go to the bank with the boss first thing in the morning and help themselves.
- Harry goes for his annual jabs first thing in the morning and I shall need all my wits about me.
- He gets fed first thing in the morning before I go to work and again when I get home.
- I work from home running a small business and need my post first thing in the morning.
- His father had left lists of producers and agents that he would call first thing in the morning.
- I know that the first thing in the morning I'll be wandering into work on my day off to find it.

first things first

Used to assert that important matters should be dealt with before other things.
急事急办
Example sentencesExamples
- A proper education enables young people to put their lives in order, which means knowing which things are more important than other things; it means putting first things first.
- But first things first - he knows he'd better make good on his campaign promise and fix that village road.
- We'll talk a lot about the book and your extraordinary story, but let's first deal with first things first.
- Let's deal with first things first, and the thing that's getting the most attention is the headline grabber.
- But first things first, you have to have other goals first, just getting in there and getting game time is the first step.
- We'll talk a lot about the book in a little while, but first let's get to first things first, and that's the major story of the day, Andy, and what do you make of the inspectors?
- So there is a lot to be done, but first things first.
- I believe that this is putting the horse before the cart, practicing first things first and the value-added benefit to this approach will spell returns in the short run too.
- But first things first and that means a result in Bray on Friday.
- So, first things first, I really liked Star Wars.

from the (very) first

From the beginning or the early stages.
起先，起初，开始时
he should have realized it from the first
他一开始就应当认识到这一点。
Example sentencesExamples
- He had been an easy delivery and Erin loved her little boy from the very first.
- It is true to say that, from the first, the country's attitude to Europe has been ambivalent.
- She was headstrong and determined to have her way from the very first.
- The central problems of the Empire, present from the very first, were revealed plainly in the crisis.
- It was a genius that Bolzano saw from the very first.
- I know that that is what God had intended from the very first.
- When we notice the geese afresh we realize, as Ma Tsu says, they've been there from the very first.
- They were encouraged from the first to be scrupulous in their use of various powers.
- Siegfried, his head grader driver, ran one crew while Steve, who'd been with him from the very first, oversaw the other.
- No wonder I'd felt connected to Antonio from the very first.
Synonyms
the beginning, the very beginning, the start, the outset, the commencement

from first to last

From beginning to end; throughout.
从头至尾，自始至终；彻底地，完全地
it's a fine performance that commands attention from first to last
这是一场精彩的演出，自始至终抓住了观众的注意力。
Example sentencesExamples
- Mr Donne said: ‘A very clear thread runs through this case, the thread of the aggression of these three men from first to last.’
- Clyde were totally dominant from first to last in a game Celtic fans must have been begging to end.
- As regards the plaintiff, he has been wrong from first to last.
- On paper, Aberdeen seemed inadequately equipped to slug it out with O'Neill's team, but their commitment was ferocious from first to last.
- There's been unbroken sunshine from first to last, with barely a token cloud in the sky.
- Playing three groups ahead of the leaders and experiencing the same difficult conditions, Olazabal was quite something, his putting breathtaking from first to last.
- It was into the second half before the important second goal arrived, but Hibs were dominant from first to last.
- By contrast, Thomas Otway's Venice Preserved commands our aesthetic and political attention from first to last.
- Her whole speech was a success from first to last, an appropriate effort.
- They weren't always enthusiastic supporters; they were skeptical from first to last.

in the first place
首次，初次，第一次

1As the first consideration or point.
首先，第一
political reality was not quite that simple—in the first place, divisions existed within the parties
政治现实远非那么简单——首先，党内存在着分歧。
Example sentencesExamples
- It wasn't as if the Mini was an especially greedy consumer of petrol in the first place.
- This is, in fact, one of the principle reasons the Top Table was created in the first place.
- He's right, but he's got a nerve considering his party broke that link in the first place.
- He refers to one recent study which considers the reasons why bloggers blog in the first place.
- That was one of the primary issues that prompted the application in the first place.
- None of the new measures seem to consider addressing the main cause of the problem in the first place.
- To answer this we must consider whether Doris's acceptance is valid in the first place.
Synonyms
in addition to, as well as, over and above
1. 1.1At the beginning; to begin with (especially in reference to the time when an action was being planned or discussed)
  在开始时；最初；起初（尤指行动尚在计划或讨论时）
  I should have told you in the first place
  我本应一开始就告诉你的。
  Example sentencesExamples
  By the way, why do you feel the need to mention the fact that you carry a knife in the first place?
  If you believe you have been misled complain to the company or person who sold you the plan in the first place.
  What makes me feel so really stupid is how I actually managed to begin smoking in the first place.
  It is always important to remind ourselves who created this state of affairs in the first place.
  If he didn't think Scott was good enough, why did he pick him in the first place?
  When it was all over, I re-read the play to try and see what it was that had made me write it in the first place.
  He is so loving and kind that I immediately remember why I fell in love with him in the first place.
  The hard thing, as I'm finding out, is getting the people in there in the first place.
  Having made an issue of the attacks in the first place, they now say that this is nothing for us to worry about.
  Sadly, it also gave me the chance to remember why we had lost touch in the first place.

of the first order (or magnitude)

Used to denote something that is excellent or considerable of its kind.
头等的，最高级的；头等重要的
it is a media event of the first order
这是头等新闻事件。
Example sentencesExamples
- While I am a technology fanatic of the first order, I see the future of high-wage nations largely as services-driven.
- Warming up, he says: ‘The transatlantic relationship remains an asset of the first order.’
- However, the overall campaign was a disaster of the first order.
- It was a disaster of the first order, but Daun was still wary of the ever-aggressive Frederick, with reason.
- But to say that it's all going to come out fine, that always struck me as being wishful thinking of the first order.
- His achievement, though easily taken for granted, was the work of an analytical mind of the first order, and he deserves much more honor than he has so far received.
- We have been waiting for this recording for years and now that it is here, one can safely say that it is indeed a masterpiece of the first order.
- Then there's Bernov's trademark balalaika-bass, a four-stringed oddity of the first order, pictured above for your amusement.
- Is this wickedness of the first order or rational economic behaviour?
- Sarris calls the film ‘a masterpiece of the first order.’
Synonyms
of the utmost importance, of the greatest significance, very important, of importance, of significance, of note, of great moment, of great consequence

Origin

Old English fyr(e)st; of Germanic origin, related to Old Norse fyrstr and German Fürst ‘prince’, from an Indo-European root shared by Sanskrit prathama, Latin primus, and Greek prōtos.

单词	first
释义	Definition of first in English: first ordinal number fəːstfərst 1Coming before all others in time or order; earliest; 1st. 最先；最早；第一 his first wife 他的第一位妻子。 the first of five daughters 五个女儿中的第一个女儿。 many valuable drugs have been recognized first as poisons 许多珍贵的药物最初都被人当做毒药。 Example sentencesExamples In some cases, it was the first time that even wives got to know what their husbands were up to. It is hoped to have everything in order for the first performance at the end of November. That night, he says, he was asleep, at home in bed with his first wife Liz. The set features songs from their first five albums when they were at the height of their creative powers. The band took their name from the second track on the first Roxy Music album. She added that people must stand up and take the first step in order to garner support from others. One of its first orders is to set up special tribunals to try members of the former regime. The new vehicle needs to be ordered by the first week in November and with your help they can do it. Officers were able to use the new order on the first day it was implemented. Aside from switching the order of the first question, this year was no exception. His first wife Mary and his 31 year old son are buried together elsewhere in the cemetery. The singer had not only helped him release his first album, but had also sung the songs in it. No one experienced the ordeal of those first few years more acutely than his first wife, Linda. It was, needless to say, one of the first albums I ripped, and I listen to bits of it at least once a week. As soon as it reopened, a couple of weeks ago, we were the very first customers to order lunch. Tom was telling me that he expects to have his first album ready for release in the Autumn. It was made the subject of one of the first building preservation orders made by the council. The name first appeared in print as long ago as 1703. The comedian has a son and a daughter by his first wife, and three daughters with his second. Synonyms earliest, initial, opening, introductory, original fundamental, basic, rudimentary, primary, beginning, elemental, underlying, basal, foundation key, cardinal, central, chief, vital, essential 1.1 Never previously done or occurring. 以前从未做过（或发生过）的 her first day at school 她上学的第一天。 Example sentencesExamples Although I had the valuable excuse when it went wrong that this was the first time I'd ever done it. Hell, I even did the Su Doku on the back of The Times today for the first time ever. For the first time ever, I was on a train where the driver went the wrong way. For the first time ever, humanism will be recommended for study by all pupils. This will be the first holiday I have ever taken on my own, and I'm quite looking forward to it. That was the first time she had ever seen me do anything before an audience and she loved it. I am now discovering the merits of a leisurely breakfast for the first time ever. Could this be the first coffee morning ever conducted entirely on the internet? This is claimed to be the first exhibition ever to show how the self-portrait developed. The display of works on paper is the first ever loan exhibition organised by Kettle's Yard. But the post made my husband comment for the first time ever and it was worth it just for that. I think this is the first wedding I have ever actually looked forward to going to. Yup, last night, for the first time ever, I was not at home to put my babies to bed. The BBC is set to launch its first ever sports news programme dedicated to children. I was walking in the mall and for the first time ever, I needed to sit on a bench just to rest. In one week, the number kept in hospital due to social services delays hit zero for the first time ever. For the first time ever, local people have been given a forum to express their views. For some of them, it was the first time they had ever come across people from different cultures. When they had the London shows, it was the first time they'd ever seen a queue outside the venue. Synonyms first, initial, introductory, initiatory, launching 1.2 Coming or encountered next after a specified or implied time, event, etc. （某一时间或某事后的）紧接着来到的 the first house I came to 我来到的第一家人家。 Example sentencesExamples The first action in the event of a fire is to put on the gas mask each crewman is issued. Acclaimed musician Ben Harper is back with his first studio album in four years. The first problem McCall encountered on his return was a severely depleted player roll. It is her first solo album in more than 10 years and leaves no room for compromise whatsoever. My first encounter with the Humberside police was just two weeks after Christopher died. This left Helen and Katy to pick up third in class on their first event together. It was the first event in the year so it was a really nice chance for people to catch up. 1.3 Before doing something else specified or implied. （在做其他事情以前）先，首先 Do you mind if I take a shower first? 我先冲个澡，行吗？ Example sentencesExamples We had to go to Ballina to meet the Bishop first and then back to Bangor again for the marriage. Would you like me to make them now, or would your Lordship prefer to hear from Mr K. first? Synonyms before anything else, first and foremost, firstly, in the first place without further ado, now 1.4 For the first time. 首次，初次，第一次 she first picked up a guitar out of sheer boredom 因为百无聊赖，她破天荒地拿起了吉他。 Example sentencesExamples I can remember when this story first emerged. One set of accounts suggests that the story first surfaced in Germany in the 1930s. 1.5informal The first occurrence of something notable. 〈非正式〉首次发生的事 we travelled by air, a first for both of us 我们乘飞机旅行了，这对我俩都还是头一回。 Example sentencesExamples Last Monday's Hall of Game was a night of firsts for the Texans, with one notable exception: they failed to pick up their first win. Less well known has been his quiet role as vice chairman of Space Adventures, which includes some notable firsts. Space missions have always been big TV moments, be they historic firsts, like the moon landing in 1969… Zacharias Kunuk has been experiencing a lot of firsts lately. Early on, Canadian fighter pilots logged a number of firsts in air combat. But for me personally it was an experience of many firsts, beyond nature. A hallmark in the history of film-making, the movie had more than one firsts to its credits, what with Lucas dividing his story into three trilogies and deciding to make the second one first as he found it more interesting. Bradford has scored a couple of notable firsts, thanks to the efforts of the Bradford Metropolitan Recreation Department, by launching two projects to keep the citizens of Bradford slim and trim. On the way over to Hawaii, we experienced so many firsts that we lost count. Miss Hall, of Allsprings Drive, Great Harwood, has also achieved several other notable firsts, including becoming the first female member of Accrington Rotary Club. York City's 4-1 FA Cup triumph over Radcliffe Borough last Sunday marked a number of notable firsts for the Minstermen. This will be many firsts - our first trip with our son, Zack's first flight, his first time seeing mountains, and the longest period of time he has been away from home and hearth. Jeff was the man that had experienced all her firsts with her. A few other firsts that occurred that night; Hogan lost cleanly for the first time in about eight years. When I was with him, I experienced a lot of firsts actually. Synonyms novelty, new experience, first experience, first occurrence, unusual event informal a turn-up for the books 1.6 The first in a sequence of a vehicle's gears. （机动车排挡的）头挡 he stuck the car in first and revved 他把车挂在头挡，然后开始加速。 Example sentencesExamples Pull both together for neutral and with a foot on the brake you select first. 1.7Baseball First base. 〔棒球〕第一垒 he made it all the way home from first 他成功地从第一垒跑回了本垒。 1.8British The first form of a school or college. 〈主英〉（学校、学院的）一年级 Example sentencesExamples It was in 1988, my first year in the first grade, and the Blacks used to come on a full tour. Paul and Karen have been friends since first grade, but never made it to second base. Leah was six and also in first grade, but her gift was in mathematics, and she was at a fifth grade level. Sumire sighed, used to the routine she had undergone all during first through eighth grade. My parents sent me to sleep away schools since the time I was in first grade. 1.9 A first edition of a book. （书的）第一版 collectors of modern firsts Example sentencesExamples The aims and compass of this edition have not changed from those of the first. For the most part, however, the structure of this edition will be familiar to readers of the first. 2Foremost in position, rank, or importance. （职位或地位）最高的；首要的，最重要的，第一位的 the doctor's first duty is to respect this right 医生的首要职责是尊重这种权力。 a first prize of £250 I always put myself first football must come first 足球必须放在首位。 Example sentencesExamples The urge for immortality, too, has often been of the first importance to writers. There is no life story without fiction, but the story, your life, should come first. The quality of life has got to come first above creating ugly urban sprawl. My feeling about this statement has always been that it's a shame, but people come first. Her reaction left no question in my mind that the grass ought to come first. If anything is to be learned from the whole sorry affair, it is that the child must come first. A really good king would have been one who accepted that the interests of the great should come first. They share the opinion that the customer should come first rather than political egos. The judge pointed to prosecution evidence that showed he put safety first. My law states that I come first, everybody else has to have second place in my life. I must have said that the players come first and looking after them is the most important thing. I am a driver myself and I know how difficult it is to park in these streets but surely lives must come first. And the very first duty of government is to uphold the law and to make the citizens secure. It should be a rigorously independent watchdog whose first duty is to the public interest. A surprise visit from inspectors helps a CEO see the importance of putting safety first. The Parole Board's first duty is to ensure any prisoner it releases is not a risk to the public. Above all, people must feel safe, and that means economic policy must not come first. The male lover's career is a conceit that according to the author often has to come first. Paxton and Lineen have never lost sight of the fact that sport is fun, and that players come first. At the end of the day, everybody's got family and they do have to come first. Synonyms foremost, principal, highest, greatest, paramount, top, topmost, utmost, uppermost, prime, chief, leading, main, major pre-eminent, overriding, outstanding, supreme, premier, predominant, prevailing, most important, of greatest importance, of prime importance vital, key, essential, crucial, central, core, focal, pivotal, dominant ruling, head informal number-one top, best, prime, premier, superlative winner's, winning, champion 2.1often with infinitive The most pressing, likely, or suitable. 最有可能的；最迫切的；最合适的 he is the first to admit he was not the best of patients 他是最有可能承认自己不是最好病人的人。 his first problem is where to live 他的首要问题是去何处居住。 Example sentencesExamples I'd be the first to admit that networking has been the key to my success in any job or role I've ever had. He is the first to admit, however, that this is more an act of God rather than a life plan. Fiona is the first to admit that she is impatient when it comes to her home. Inbound tourist operators are the first to admit their jobs are the cream of the crop. He is the first to admit he is not as hungry for success as he was when he was younger. 2.2 Firstly; in the first place (used to introduce a main point or reason) 首先，第一（用来引出第一个观点或原因） first, it is wrong that the victims should have no remedy 首先，受害者不应补偿的主张是不对的。 2.3 In preference; rather (used when strongly rejecting a suggestion or possibility) （用于坚决拒绝某个建议或可能性时）宁可，宁愿 she longed to go abroad, but not at this man's expense—she'd die first! 她渴望出国，但不想用这个男人的钱——死也不想！ Synonyms in preference, more willingly, sooner, rather 2.4 The first finisher or position in a race or competition. （比赛或竞赛的）第一名；领先者 Example sentencesExamples Then there's Tom Wilkens, ranked first in the world in '98 in the 200. The three disciplines are run back-to-back and the winner is the first athlete to finish. In fleet racing, the dominant type at the Olympics, the first to cross the line wins the race. He's also timed it so that he's going out as the first finishers in the race are coming in. It was so refreshing to hear Latka explain how he had raced from 28th to first and won. Schoeman ranked first in the world last year in the 50 meter long course. 2.5Music Performing the highest or chief of two or more parts for the same instrument or voice. 〔乐〕演唱（或演奏）高声部的 the first violins 第一声部小提琴。 Example sentencesExamples I looked up at one point in the middle of the second act, to see something strange going on in the first violins. Gradually a permanent nucleus was formed comprising the essential elements of an Orchestra - firsts and seconds, alto, tenor and bass parts, guitar, bayan, piano and percussion. 2.6in titles Having precedence over all others of a similar kind. （同类中职务或职称）领先于所有其他人的，比其他人都高的 First Lord of the Admiralty （英国）海军大臣。 2.7British A place in the top grade in an examination, especially that for a degree. 〈英〉（尤指学位考试中的）优等，最高分；第一名 chaps with firsts from Oxbridge 获得牛津和剑桥两所大学最高分的小伙子们。 2.8British A person who has received the top grade in an examination for a degree. 〈英〉（尤指学位考试中的）优等，最高分；第一名 2.9the firsts The best or main team of a sports club. （体育俱乐部的）甲级队；主力队 he was asked to play for the firsts Example sentencesExamples David Duxbury's side was cheered on by a good crowd which included most of the firsts from both clubs. No matter what level I've played at coaches have always picked me on the firsts. Saracens, with a week off from Merit Table games, arranged a pool fixture with Yarnbury firsts and produced a workmanlike performance in difficult conditions to run out comfortable winners. I never intended to play on for the firsts, I didn't want to keep coming back, but at the start of the season there was a shortage of props. He was scoring 100s for the firsts at age 15 and his ability then was beyond his years. The match against RMC loomed as a danger game for the firsts, with the Cadets an unknown quantity and likely to be at full strength. Next up is a trip to Emley Moor for the firsts while the second team entertain Dudley Hill Eagles at home. Captain Jez Petch returns from holiday, Lee McTigue should be available after missing the last two weeks through work and Mick Storey is elevated to the firsts from last week's ‘A’ team. It was the firsts that were so inspiring to watch, after all; that was where the future representatives of our country would be playing and it was something we could always strive to achieve; to play for our school first team. 2.10firsts Goods of the best quality. 一等品；优等品 factory firsts, seconds, and discontinued styles 工厂的一等品、二等品和已不再流行的款式。 3With a specified part or person in a leading position. 以身体的某一部位（或某人）在先（或为首） the car plunged nose first into the river 它先把鼻子浸到了水里。 Example sentencesExamples As soon as I said that a dark figure crashed into the window and fell head first on the floor. Down she fell head first onto the floor. She got about four steps away when she tripped over her leg rope and fell face first into a puddle. She stumbled and tripped, and landed face first on the ground. He opened the door to be greeted by Diana falling head first to the ground. He was swept off his feet, and landed face first into the dirt. Phrases first come, first served Used to indicate that people will be dealt with strictly in the order in which they arrive or apply. 先到者先受款待（表示严格按先后次序办事） tickets are available on a first come, first served basis 售票实行先来者先售予的原则。 Example sentencesExamples Season ticket holders who wish to sit in this stand must first get a free transfer ticket from the ticket office at least two days before the game and it is strictly first come, first served. Due to the high level of interest in the course, applications will be dealt with on a first come, first served basis. The Playgroup re-opens on Monday the 5th of September at 9.30 a.m. and places are available on a first come, first served, basis. And how are the lists ordered: on the basis of first come, first served? All are first come, first served; arrive early on weekends. Postcards can't be reserved or paid for in advance, they are allocated on a strictly first come, first served basis on the sale days only. It's first come, first served, so please act quickly! Seating for the these concerts will be limited and admission is by ticket only on the door at £5.00, first come, first served. The open auditions will be run on a first come, first served basis with entrants arriving at the venue by 9.00 am. Why can't they just leave the tickets with the professionals and let it be a case of first come, first served, the same as any other major event in the country. first and foremost Most importantly; more than anything else. 首要的是，首先 he considered himself first and foremost a writer Example sentencesExamples It was, first and foremost, an exercise in politics rather than sound economic management. Cathedrals are, first and foremost, places of worship and are recognised as places of great beauty. While she was a singer first and foremost, Tucker is loathe to choose between her two loves. It was an act, first and foremost, of solidarity with the victims and of empathy with their families. We are police officers first and foremost, and that is our responsibility. Since then he has never looked back although he does consider himself to be a Carlow man first and foremost. Like everything else Shaker, things had, first and foremost, to be practical. I am not a great charity giver, I, like most people, need to protect my family first and foremost. Any preconceptions of worthiness are soon put to rest: first and foremost, this is a road movie. Cinema is, first and foremost, the projection of a cultural identity which comes to life on the screen. first and last Fundamentally; on the whole. 从根本上说，总的来说 museums are first and last about curatorship 博物馆的好坏从根本上说与其馆长的能力有关。 Example sentencesExamples I am, first and last and always, concerned about the welfare of people, all kinds of people. Feminism's a socialist movement, first and last. Rosa Luxemburg roundly declared that freedom was first and last the freedom for those who thought differently. There is little point in wallowing in the brilliance of Bacon if you don't recognise him as a moralist first and last. first of all 1Before doing anything else. 首先；第一次 first of all, let me ask you something 首先，让我问你点事情。 Example sentencesExamples We'll get to why he's in a wheelchair in a second, but, first of all, how big is this? To understand this let us first of all look at the principles of Sun and Neptune separately. This learning would, first of all, be a listening to God's voice in contemplative silence. I should ask first of all if he wishes to say anything in response to those submissions? Can I just say, first of all, in all honesty, how much I respect what you've done in Lapland in previous years. What was the principal difficulty there about delay, first of all in the Sergeant's case? Right, first of all do not ask me anything about teenage pregnancy and having trouble in sexual situations. Her Honour Justice Branson first of all basically agrees with his Honour Justice Wilcox. Well, first of all the cabin is extremely well trimmed, especially if you go for pale grey leather seats and a black carpet. Tell us, first of all, about this one picture of this safe that was knocked over. 1.1Most importantly. 最重要的是 German unity depends first of all on the German people 德国的统一首先要靠德国人民。 Example sentencesExamples And the importance of history is first of all it tells you the way the world was. My main goal in life, first of all, is to live every day to the fullest, no matter how long that is. I did not believe that a man my age, first of all, could fall in love like a teenager. Well, I think, first of all, that the fact he lied about his affair is going to hurt him. Well, first of all there are nine states that are already doing that in the United States. All I really wanted to really talk about was first of all what a relief it is to hear James talking. Really, to keep them in optimum state, it is important that they be maintained first of all. With gaming, young people can get involved and, first of all, it's a culture where you can belong. The advancement of science depends, first of all, on the free flow of information. Well, first of all, I never would have allowed it to get out of control the way it did. first off informal As a first point; firstly. 〈非正式，主北美〉首先，第一 first off, I owe you a heck of an apology 首先，我真的应该向你道歉。 Example sentencesExamples Well, first off there are some pretty sophisticated statistical tricks you can do with the data to make it more reliable. They were dying to know what it was going to look like, first off. Well, first off, you went and bought the book which is a first step. Now, first off, just what makes these outlandish themes reflect reality? Give us a sense, first off, where these arms are primarily coming from. I think first off, somebody of the things that they're planning should be kept secret and private. Well, first off, I think the prevailing theme here is it could have been a lot worse. Well, first off I would not recommend an over-the - counter eye drop as the preferred product. Well, first off, we've got to talk about a couple of different things. Well, first off I'm going to suggest something rather radical: people need to take responsibility for their own sexual health. first past the post 1(of a contestant, especially a horse) winning a race by being the first to reach the finishing line. （参赛者，尤指赛马）因第一个到达终点线而获胜 Aliysa was first past the post in the 1989 Oaks Example sentencesExamples Local Claremorris man Finbar Donnellan also had a share in a horse that was first past the post in one of Wednesday's races. Boxed in on the final corner by his rivals, he had to pull out all the stops up Cheltenham's notoriously unforgiving hill to ensure that he was first past the post. F1 Racing were first past the post in their game at Bay Horse Tadcaster. Think Big won the big race twice and Let's Elope and Saintly were amongst two of his other special charges who were first past the post. Tales abound of this man who walked 10 miles in his bare feet for cystic fibrosis in 1975 and was first past the post. Esha Ness, ridden by John White and trained by Jenny Pitman, was the first past the post but the race was later declared void. Kieran was first past the post in the 1500 metres on the Saturday, turning in an excellent time of 5.58. If he is first past the post then the victory will put a very serious dent in the profits on bookmakers operating in Ireland. It was not always the favourites that came first past the post, which all added to the excitement. After two very promising performances it should be only a matter of time before Maryann The Dancer is first past the post. 1.1British attributiveDenoting an electoral system in which a candidate or party is selected by achievement of a simple majority. 〈英〉（指选举制度）以简单多数票当选的 our first-past-the-post electoral system 我们以简单多数票当选的选举制度。 Example sentencesExamples The first past the post system always unfairly rewards the largest parties, but the results become particularly arbitrary when their share of the vote is relatively small. These are, of course, first past the post elections, and therefore difficult for us to make a mark on. It returns Italy, after 12 years of flirtation with first past the post, to a proportional system. We proved under the first past the post system in Preston that we can win. The first past the post system won't deliver that. But - and it's a very big ‘but’ - under first past the post, the power of government goes to the party of the plurality, to the largest minority. We totally accept that no first past the post system is infallible. Its genuinely difficult to figure out the Indian voter, and more importantly the first past the post system can make a few percentage difference in vote share seem like a land slide. Britain uses the first past the post formula and the candidate receiving the most votes is elected, regardless of whether or not he has a majority of votes cast. Secondly, making an electoral breakthrough in a first past the post electoral system remains tough. first thing Early in the morning; before anything else. 一大早；要做的第一件事 I have to meet Josh first thing tomorrow 我明天一大早就得去接乔希。 Example sentencesExamples He gets fed first thing in the morning before I go to work and again when I get home. I needed a drink first thing in the morning and a bag of heroin in the afternoon. We have street cleansing teams out from first thing in the morning until late at night. I work from home running a small business and need my post first thing in the morning. They had the chance to do that either on Friday night or first thing in the morning before we were to set out. They stay the night, go to the bank with the boss first thing in the morning and help themselves. His father had left lists of producers and agents that he would call first thing in the morning. Harry goes for his annual jabs first thing in the morning and I shall need all my wits about me. I know that the first thing in the morning I'll be wandering into work on my day off to find it. Revise when you want to revise, be it first thing in the morning or late at night. at first At the beginning; in the initial stage or stages. 起先，起初，开始时 at first Hugo tried to be patient 开始时，雨果想忍耐一下。 Example sentencesExamples He seemed a bit nervous at first but soon settled and gave his usual comic performance. You do have to be a bit of a contortionist at first to engage gear, but it is a sportsbike after all. The driver had not wanted to take him at first because he was so drunk he had to be supported by three women. He was fine at first then complained about not feeling well and went back to bed. She's the daughter of an opera singer, and at first she didn't want to go into opera. It was difficult to get funding at first but now there is a consortium of people who have put money into it. The guy was reluctant at first and refused to come with me, but I could tell he needed my help. It can be a bit daunting at first but once they get started and have a go they really enjoy it and learn quickly. We were a bit dubious about doing the programme at first, but we really enjoyed making it. He was struck by the car as he walked home from a wedding, and at first it was feared he might not survive. Synonyms at first, to begin with, at the beginning, at the start, first of all, at the outset, initially first things first Important matters should be dealt with before other things. 急事急办 I suggest we get our priorities right—first things first Example sentencesExamples But first things first and that means a result in Bray on Friday. We'll talk a lot about the book and your extraordinary story, but let's first deal with first things first. A proper education enables young people to put their lives in order, which means knowing which things are more important than other things; it means putting first things first. Let's deal with first things first, and the thing that's getting the most attention is the headline grabber. But first things first, you have to have other goals first, just getting in there and getting game time is the first step. So, first things first, I really liked Star Wars. So there is a lot to be done, but first things first. I believe that this is putting the horse before the cart, practicing first things first and the value-added benefit to this approach will spell returns in the short run too. But first things first - he knows he'd better make good on his campaign promise and fix that village road. We'll talk a lot about the book in a little while, but first let's get to first things first, and that's the major story of the day, Andy, and what do you make of the inspectors? first up 〔棒球〕第一垒 1First of all. 首先，第一 Example sentencesExamples Can I just say first up that as far as the state of play in journalism is concerned, I actually think things aren't so bad. So first up, how long have you been working here (probably not long cos the bar's just opened)! That means that this motion will in fact be debated first up. They fielded well first up to dismiss the Razzle for 171. Miriama Kamo presents the mix of local and US tales - first up, a story about US swingers, and Pete Cronshaw investigates a Coromandel property developer. So first up, what kind of show is he bringing down under? But there are some key things the most successful websites have in common - first up, they are simple, have content the people want to read and it has to be current. And when I read it first up, I thought ‘That doesn't seem real.’ 1.1Australian NZ At the first attempt. 首次，初次，第一次 Example sentencesExamples They had been beaten in the first round last year but came out strong by winning their first up match convincingly. Wilson had beaten Damian Smith first up, then both David Wilson and me in cover, before George knocked the ball from his hands with that despairing late dive. But this year both have hit the ground first up with viewers, unusual for Seven and a worry for Nine if it continues. You would not have to undergo the painful trial and error process of learning how to shave, one of your old men could show you the correct way first up. A first up Saturday game against Sandringham gave the team an idea of what it was in for. Of course this countries attention was on the first up game, also known as NZ v SA. Dalton says they have drawn Oracle first up which will be a good wake up call. A goal to midfielder Heather Garriock in the first half proved the difference as the team set about playing with a bit more flair than in their stodgy first up loss to the Brazilians. from the (very) first From the beginning. he should have realized it from the first 他一开始就应当认识到这一点。 Example sentencesExamples He had been an easy delivery and Erin loved her little boy from the very first. I know that that is what God had intended from the very first. The central problems of the Empire, present from the very first, were revealed plainly in the crisis. It was a genius that Bolzano saw from the very first. When we notice the geese afresh we realize, as Ma Tsu says, they've been there from the very first. They were encouraged from the first to be scrupulous in their use of various powers. Siegfried, his head grader driver, ran one crew while Steve, who'd been with him from the very first, oversaw the other. It is true to say that, from the first, the country's attitude to Europe has been ambivalent. She was headstrong and determined to have her way from the very first. No wonder I'd felt connected to Antonio from the very first. Synonyms the beginning, the very beginning, the start, the outset, the commencement from first to last From beginning to end; throughout. 从头至尾，自始至终；彻底地，完全地 it's a fine performance that commands attention from first to last 这是一场精彩的演出，自始至终抓住了观众的注意力。 Example sentencesExamples There's been unbroken sunshine from first to last, with barely a token cloud in the sky. Mr Donne said: ‘A very clear thread runs through this case, the thread of the aggression of these three men from first to last.’ Clyde were totally dominant from first to last in a game Celtic fans must have been begging to end. Her whole speech was a success from first to last, an appropriate effort. On paper, Aberdeen seemed inadequately equipped to slug it out with O'Neill's team, but their commitment was ferocious from first to last. As regards the plaintiff, he has been wrong from first to last. Playing three groups ahead of the leaders and experiencing the same difficult conditions, Olazabal was quite something, his putting breathtaking from first to last. They weren't always enthusiastic supporters; they were skeptical from first to last. It was into the second half before the important second goal arrived, but Hibs were dominant from first to last. By contrast, Thomas Otway's Venice Preserved commands our aesthetic and political attention from first to last. in the first place 1As the first consideration or point. 首先，第一 political reality was not quite that simple—in the first place, divisions existed within the parties 政治现实远非那么简单——首先，党内存在着分歧。 Example sentencesExamples To answer this we must consider whether Doris's acceptance is valid in the first place. That was one of the primary issues that prompted the application in the first place. It wasn't as if the Mini was an especially greedy consumer of petrol in the first place. None of the new measures seem to consider addressing the main cause of the problem in the first place. He's right, but he's got a nerve considering his party broke that link in the first place. This is, in fact, one of the principle reasons the Top Table was created in the first place. He refers to one recent study which considers the reasons why bloggers blog in the first place. Synonyms in addition to, as well as, over and above 1.1At the beginning; to begin with. I should have told you in the first place 我本应一开始就告诉你的。 Example sentencesExamples Having made an issue of the attacks in the first place, they now say that this is nothing for us to worry about. If you believe you have been misled complain to the company or person who sold you the plan in the first place. By the way, why do you feel the need to mention the fact that you carry a knife in the first place? The hard thing, as I'm finding out, is getting the people in there in the first place. Sadly, it also gave me the chance to remember why we had lost touch in the first place. It is always important to remind ourselves who created this state of affairs in the first place. What makes me feel so really stupid is how I actually managed to begin smoking in the first place. If he didn't think Scott was good enough, why did he pick him in the first place? He is so loving and kind that I immediately remember why I fell in love with him in the first place. When it was all over, I re-read the play to try and see what it was that had made me write it in the first place. of the first order (or magnitude) Excellent or considerable of its kind. 头等的，最高级的；头等重要的 it is a media event of the first order 这是头等新闻事件。 Example sentencesExamples His achievement, though easily taken for granted, was the work of an analytical mind of the first order, and he deserves much more honor than he has so far received. Then there's Bernov's trademark balalaika-bass, a four-stringed oddity of the first order, pictured above for your amusement. It was a disaster of the first order, but Daun was still wary of the ever-aggressive Frederick, with reason. Sarris calls the film ‘a masterpiece of the first order.’ But to say that it's all going to come out fine, that always struck me as being wishful thinking of the first order. Is this wickedness of the first order or rational economic behaviour? Warming up, he says: ‘The transatlantic relationship remains an asset of the first order.’ While I am a technology fanatic of the first order, I see the future of high-wage nations largely as services-driven. However, the overall campaign was a disaster of the first order. We have been waiting for this recording for years and now that it is here, one can safely say that it is indeed a masterpiece of the first order. Synonyms of the utmost importance, of the greatest significance, very important, of importance, of significance, of note, of great moment, of great consequence Origin Old English fyr(e)st; of Germanic origin, related to Old Norse fyrstr and German Fürst 'prince', from an Indo-European root shared by Sanskrit prathama, Latin primus, and Greek prōtos. The Old English word first goes back to an ancient root which is shared by Latin primus (as in prime), and Greek prōtos (as in protein (mid 19th century) and prototype (mid 16th century)). The expression first come, first served goes back to the Middle Ages and is found in the poetry of Geoffrey Chaucer. It was originally used in the context of milling, when a mill would serve the whole community. The first person to bring their corn to the mill would be the first person to have it ground. The first among equals is the member of a group that has the highest status. It is a translation of the Latin phrase primus inter pares, which was used as a title by Roman emperors. Many will know it today as the title of a Jeffrey Archer novel published in 1984. In Scotland to first-foot (early 19th century) is to be the first person to cross the threshold of a house in the New Year. Traditionally, it is thought lucky for that person to be a dark-haired man. Rhymes accursed, burst, curst, erst, headfirst, Hurst, thirst, under-rehearsed, unrehearsed, unversed, verst, worst, wurst ord.1 phr. Definition of first in US English: first ordinal numberfərstfərst 1Coming before all others in time or order; earliest; 1st. 最先；最早；第一 his first wife 他的第一位妻子。 the first of five daughters 五个女儿中的第一个女儿。 Example sentencesExamples No one experienced the ordeal of those first few years more acutely than his first wife, Linda. The set features songs from their first five albums when they were at the height of their creative powers. The singer had not only helped him release his first album, but had also sung the songs in it. The name first appeared in print as long ago as 1703. It is hoped to have everything in order for the first performance at the end of November. In some cases, it was the first time that even wives got to know what their husbands were up to. It was made the subject of one of the first building preservation orders made by the council. Tom was telling me that he expects to have his first album ready for release in the Autumn. It was, needless to say, one of the first albums I ripped, and I listen to bits of it at least once a week. She added that people must stand up and take the first step in order to garner support from others. Officers were able to use the new order on the first day it was implemented. As soon as it reopened, a couple of weeks ago, we were the very first customers to order lunch. His first wife Mary and his 31 year old son are buried together elsewhere in the cemetery. Aside from switching the order of the first question, this year was no exception. One of its first orders is to set up special tribunals to try members of the former regime. The band took their name from the second track on the first Roxy Music album. The comedian has a son and a daughter by his first wife, and three daughters with his second. That night, he says, he was asleep, at home in bed with his first wife Liz. The new vehicle needs to be ordered by the first week in November and with your help they can do it. Synonyms earliest, initial, opening, introductory, original fundamental, basic, rudimentary, primary, beginning, elemental, underlying, basal, foundation 1.1 Never previously done or occurring. 以前从未做过（或发生过）的 her first day at school 她上学的第一天。 Example sentencesExamples For the first time ever, humanism will be recommended for study by all pupils. Although I had the valuable excuse when it went wrong that this was the first time I'd ever done it. Could this be the first coffee morning ever conducted entirely on the internet? Hell, I even did the Su Doku on the back of The Times today for the first time ever. This is claimed to be the first exhibition ever to show how the self-portrait developed. This will be the first holiday I have ever taken on my own, and I'm quite looking forward to it. I was walking in the mall and for the first time ever, I needed to sit on a bench just to rest. For the first time ever, I was on a train where the driver went the wrong way. The BBC is set to launch its first ever sports news programme dedicated to children. The display of works on paper is the first ever loan exhibition organised by Kettle's Yard. For the first time ever, local people have been given a forum to express their views. That was the first time she had ever seen me do anything before an audience and she loved it. Yup, last night, for the first time ever, I was not at home to put my babies to bed. I am now discovering the merits of a leisurely breakfast for the first time ever. When they had the London shows, it was the first time they'd ever seen a queue outside the venue. In one week, the number kept in hospital due to social services delays hit zero for the first time ever. For some of them, it was the first time they had ever come across people from different cultures. I think this is the first wedding I have ever actually looked forward to going to. But the post made my husband comment for the first time ever and it was worth it just for that. Synonyms first, initial, introductory, initiatory, launching 1.2 Coming next after a specified or implied time or occurrence. （某一时间或某事后的）紧接着来到的 I didn't take the first bus 我没有乘坐首班车。 Example sentencesExamples It is her first solo album in more than 10 years and leaves no room for compromise whatsoever. The first problem McCall encountered on his return was a severely depleted player roll. This left Helen and Katy to pick up third in class on their first event together. Acclaimed musician Ben Harper is back with his first studio album in four years. My first encounter with the Humberside police was just two weeks after Christopher died. It was the first event in the year so it was a really nice chance for people to catch up. The first action in the event of a fire is to put on the gas mask each crewman is issued. 1.3 Met with or encountered before any others. 最早（或最先）遭遇到的 the first house I came to 我来到的第一家人家。 1.4 Originally. many valuable drugs have been recognized first as poisons 许多珍贵的药物最初都被人当做毒药。 1.5 Before doing something else specified or implied. （在做其他事情以前）先，首先 Do you mind if I take a shower first? 我先冲个澡，行吗？ Example sentencesExamples We had to go to Ballina to meet the Bishop first and then back to Bangor again for the marriage. Would you like me to make them now, or would your Lordship prefer to hear from Mr K. first? Synonyms before anything else, first and foremost, firstly, in the first place 1.6 For the first time. 首次，初次，第一次 she first picked up a guitar out of sheer boredom 因为百无聊赖，她破天荒地拿起了吉他。 Example sentencesExamples I can remember when this story first emerged. One set of accounts suggests that the story first surfaced in Germany in the 1930s. 1.7 Firstly; in the first place (used to introduce a first point or reason) 首先，第一（用来引出第一个观点或原因） first, it is wrong that the victims should have no remedy 首先，受害者不应补偿的主张是不对的。 1.8 In preference; rather (used when strongly rejecting a suggestion or possibility) （用于坚决拒绝某个建议或可能性时）宁可，宁愿 she longed to go abroad, but not at this man's expense—she'd die first! 她渴望出国，但不想用这个男人的钱——死也不想！ Synonyms in preference, more willingly, sooner, rather 1.9informal The first occurrence of something notable. 〈非正式〉首次发生的事 we traveled by air, a first for both of us 我们乘飞机旅行了，这对我俩都还是头一回。 Example sentencesExamples Zacharias Kunuk has been experiencing a lot of firsts lately. Space missions have always been big TV moments, be they historic firsts, like the moon landing in 1969… Miss Hall, of Allsprings Drive, Great Harwood, has also achieved several other notable firsts, including becoming the first female member of Accrington Rotary Club. Jeff was the man that had experienced all her firsts with her. York City's 4-1 FA Cup triumph over Radcliffe Borough last Sunday marked a number of notable firsts for the Minstermen. When I was with him, I experienced a lot of firsts actually. This will be many firsts - our first trip with our son, Zack's first flight, his first time seeing mountains, and the longest period of time he has been away from home and hearth. A few other firsts that occurred that night; Hogan lost cleanly for the first time in about eight years. On the way over to Hawaii, we experienced so many firsts that we lost count. Early on, Canadian fighter pilots logged a number of firsts in air combat. Bradford has scored a couple of notable firsts, thanks to the efforts of the Bradford Metropolitan Recreation Department, by launching two projects to keep the citizens of Bradford slim and trim. A hallmark in the history of film-making, the movie had more than one firsts to its credits, what with Lucas dividing his story into three trilogies and deciding to make the second one first as he found it more interesting. But for me personally it was an experience of many firsts, beyond nature. Last Monday's Hall of Game was a night of firsts for the Texans, with one notable exception: they failed to pick up their first win. Less well known has been his quiet role as vice chairman of Space Adventures, which includes some notable firsts. Synonyms novelty, new experience, first experience, first occurrence, unusual event 1.10 The first in a sequence of a vehicle's gears. （机动车排挡的）头挡 he stuck the car in first and revved 他把车挂在头挡，然后开始加速。 Example sentencesExamples Pull both together for neutral and with a foot on the brake you select first. 1.11Baseball First base. 〔棒球〕第一垒 he made it all the way home from first 他成功地从第一垒跑回了本垒。 1.12British The first grade of a school. 〈主英〉（学校、学院的）一年级 Example sentencesExamples Paul and Karen have been friends since first grade, but never made it to second base. Leah was six and also in first grade, but her gift was in mathematics, and she was at a fifth grade level. It was in 1988, my first year in the first grade, and the Blacks used to come on a full tour. My parents sent me to sleep away schools since the time I was in first grade. Sumire sighed, used to the routine she had undergone all during first through eighth grade. 1.13 A first edition of a book. （书的）第一版 collectors of modern firsts Example sentencesExamples The aims and compass of this edition have not changed from those of the first. For the most part, however, the structure of this edition will be familiar to readers of the first. 2Foremost in position, rank, or importance. （职位或地位）最高的；首要的，最重要的，第一位的 the doctor's first duty is to respect this right 医生的首要职责是尊重这种权力。 I always put myself first football must come first 足球必须放在首位。 Example sentencesExamples My law states that I come first, everybody else has to have second place in my life. If anything is to be learned from the whole sorry affair, it is that the child must come first. I am a driver myself and I know how difficult it is to park in these streets but surely lives must come first. Paxton and Lineen have never lost sight of the fact that sport is fun, and that players come first. A surprise visit from inspectors helps a CEO see the importance of putting safety first. The male lover's career is a conceit that according to the author often has to come first. Her reaction left no question in my mind that the grass ought to come first. They share the opinion that the customer should come first rather than political egos. At the end of the day, everybody's got family and they do have to come first. The judge pointed to prosecution evidence that showed he put safety first. It should be a rigorously independent watchdog whose first duty is to the public interest. And the very first duty of government is to uphold the law and to make the citizens secure. The urge for immortality, too, has often been of the first importance to writers. My feeling about this statement has always been that it's a shame, but people come first. The Parole Board's first duty is to ensure any prisoner it releases is not a risk to the public. The quality of life has got to come first above creating ugly urban sprawl. A really good king would have been one who accepted that the interests of the great should come first. I must have said that the players come first and looking after them is the most important thing. There is no life story without fiction, but the story, your life, should come first. Above all, people must feel safe, and that means economic policy must not come first. Synonyms foremost, principal, highest, greatest, paramount, top, topmost, utmost, uppermost, prime, chief, leading, main, major top, best, prime, premier, superlative 2.1often with infinitive The most likely, pressing, or suitable. 最有可能的；最迫切的；最合适的 he is the first to admit he was not the best of patients 他是最有可能承认自己不是最好病人的人。 his first problem is where to live 他的首要问题是去何处居住。 Example sentencesExamples He is the first to admit he is not as hungry for success as he was when he was younger. I'd be the first to admit that networking has been the key to my success in any job or role I've ever had. Inbound tourist operators are the first to admit their jobs are the cream of the crop. He is the first to admit, however, that this is more an act of God rather than a life plan. Fiona is the first to admit that she is impatient when it comes to her home. 2.2 The first finisher or position in a race or competition. （比赛或竞赛的）第一名；领先者 Example sentencesExamples It was so refreshing to hear Latka explain how he had raced from 28th to first and won. In fleet racing, the dominant type at the Olympics, the first to cross the line wins the race. He's also timed it so that he's going out as the first finishers in the race are coming in. The three disciplines are run back-to-back and the winner is the first athlete to finish. Then there's Tom Wilkens, ranked first in the world in '98 in the 200. Schoeman ranked first in the world last year in the 50 meter long course. 2.3Music Performing the highest or chief of two or more parts for the same instrument or voice. 〔乐〕演唱（或演奏）高声部的 the first violins 第一声部小提琴。 Example sentencesExamples Gradually a permanent nucleus was formed comprising the essential elements of an Orchestra - firsts and seconds, alto, tenor and bass parts, guitar, bayan, piano and percussion. I looked up at one point in the middle of the second act, to see something strange going on in the first violins. 2.4British A place in the top grade in an examination, especially that for a degree. 〈英〉（尤指学位考试中的）优等，最高分；第一名 he took a first in Classics 2.5British A person having achieved a top grade in an examination. 〈英〉优等生 2.6firsts Goods of the best quality. 一等品；优等品 factory firsts, seconds, and discontinued styles 工厂的一等品、二等品和已不再流行的款式。 3With a specified part or person in a leading position. 以身体的某一部位（或某人）在先（或为首） it plunged nose first into the river 它先把鼻子浸到了水里。 Example sentencesExamples He was swept off his feet, and landed face first into the dirt. He opened the door to be greeted by Diana falling head first to the ground. She stumbled and tripped, and landed face first on the ground. Down she fell head first onto the floor. She got about four steps away when she tripped over her leg rope and fell face first into a puddle. As soon as I said that a dark figure crashed into the window and fell head first on the floor. Usage First, second, third, etc., are adverbs as well as adjectives: first, dice three potatoes; second, add the bouillon. Firstly, secondly, etc., are also correct, but make sure not to mix the two groups: first, second, third; not first, secondly, thirdly. See also former Phrases at first At the beginning; in the initial stage or stages. 起先，起初，开始时 at first Hugh tried to be patient 开始时，雨果想忍耐一下。 Example sentencesExamples He was struck by the car as he walked home from a wedding, and at first it was feared he might not survive. It was difficult to get funding at first but now there is a consortium of people who have put money into it. He seemed a bit nervous at first but soon settled and gave his usual comic performance. The driver had not wanted to take him at first because he was so drunk he had to be supported by three women. It can be a bit daunting at first but once they get started and have a go they really enjoy it and learn quickly. We were a bit dubious about doing the programme at first, but we really enjoyed making it. You do have to be a bit of a contortionist at first to engage gear, but it is a sportsbike after all. The guy was reluctant at first and refused to come with me, but I could tell he needed my help. She's the daughter of an opera singer, and at first she didn't want to go into opera. He was fine at first then complained about not feeling well and went back to bed. Synonyms at first, to begin with, at the beginning, at the start, first of all, at the outset, initially first come, first served Used to indicate that people will be dealt with in the order in which they arrive or apply. 先到者先受款待（表示严格按先后次序办事） tickets are available on a first come, first served basis 售票实行先来者先售予的原则。 Example sentencesExamples Seating for the these concerts will be limited and admission is by ticket only on the door at £5.00, first come, first served. The open auditions will be run on a first come, first served basis with entrants arriving at the venue by 9.00 am. Postcards can't be reserved or paid for in advance, they are allocated on a strictly first come, first served basis on the sale days only. All are first come, first served; arrive early on weekends. And how are the lists ordered: on the basis of first come, first served? It's first come, first served, so please act quickly! The Playgroup re-opens on Monday the 5th of September at 9.30 a.m. and places are available on a first come, first served, basis. Why can't they just leave the tickets with the professionals and let it be a case of first come, first served, the same as any other major event in the country. Due to the high level of interest in the course, applications will be dealt with on a first come, first served basis. Season ticket holders who wish to sit in this stand must first get a free transfer ticket from the ticket office at least two days before the game and it is strictly first come, first served. first and foremost Most importantly; more than anything else. 首要的是，首先 I'm first and foremost a writer Example sentencesExamples Cinema is, first and foremost, the projection of a cultural identity which comes to life on the screen. We are police officers first and foremost, and that is our responsibility. It was, first and foremost, an exercise in politics rather than sound economic management. Any preconceptions of worthiness are soon put to rest: first and foremost, this is a road movie. Since then he has never looked back although he does consider himself to be a Carlow man first and foremost. I am not a great charity giver, I, like most people, need to protect my family first and foremost. While she was a singer first and foremost, Tucker is loathe to choose between her two loves. Like everything else Shaker, things had, first and foremost, to be practical. Cathedrals are, first and foremost, places of worship and are recognised as places of great beauty. It was an act, first and foremost, of solidarity with the victims and of empathy with their families. first and last 〔棒球〕第一垒 Fundamentally; on the whole. 从根本上说，总的来说 museums are first and last about curatorship 博物馆的好坏从根本上说与其馆长的能力有关。 Example sentencesExamples I am, first and last and always, concerned about the welfare of people, all kinds of people. Rosa Luxemburg roundly declared that freedom was first and last the freedom for those who thought differently. Feminism's a socialist movement, first and last. There is little point in wallowing in the brilliance of Bacon if you don't recognise him as a moralist first and last. first of all 首先，第一 1Before doing anything else; at the beginning. 首先；第一次 first of all, let me ask you something 首先，让我问你点事情。 Example sentencesExamples What was the principal difficulty there about delay, first of all in the Sergeant's case? Right, first of all do not ask me anything about teenage pregnancy and having trouble in sexual situations. This learning would, first of all, be a listening to God's voice in contemplative silence. Well, first of all the cabin is extremely well trimmed, especially if you go for pale grey leather seats and a black carpet. Tell us, first of all, about this one picture of this safe that was knocked over. We'll get to why he's in a wheelchair in a second, but, first of all, how big is this? Can I just say, first of all, in all honesty, how much I respect what you've done in Lapland in previous years. To understand this let us first of all look at the principles of Sun and Neptune separately. Her Honour Justice Branson first of all basically agrees with his Honour Justice Wilcox. I should ask first of all if he wishes to say anything in response to those submissions? 1.1Most importantly. 最重要的是 German unity depends first of all on the German people 德国的统一首先要靠德国人民。 Example sentencesExamples Well, first of all, I never would have allowed it to get out of control the way it did. Well, I think, first of all, that the fact he lied about his affair is going to hurt him. And the importance of history is first of all it tells you the way the world was. I did not believe that a man my age, first of all, could fall in love like a teenager. My main goal in life, first of all, is to live every day to the fullest, no matter how long that is. The advancement of science depends, first of all, on the free flow of information. Really, to keep them in optimum state, it is important that they be maintained first of all. All I really wanted to really talk about was first of all what a relief it is to hear James talking. Well, first of all there are nine states that are already doing that in the United States. With gaming, young people can get involved and, first of all, it's a culture where you can belong. first off 首先，第一 informal As a first point; first of all. 〈非正式，主北美〉首先，第一 first off, I owe you a heck of an apology 首先，我真的应该向你道歉。 Example sentencesExamples Give us a sense, first off, where these arms are primarily coming from. Well, first off I would not recommend an over-the - counter eye drop as the preferred product. Now, first off, just what makes these outlandish themes reflect reality? Well, first off, I think the prevailing theme here is it could have been a lot worse. They were dying to know what it was going to look like, first off. Well, first off there are some pretty sophisticated statistical tricks you can do with the data to make it more reliable. I think first off, somebody of the things that they're planning should be kept secret and private. Well, first off I'm going to suggest something rather radical: people need to take responsibility for their own sexual health. Well, first off, we've got to talk about a couple of different things. Well, first off, you went and bought the book which is a first step. first past the post 1(of a contestant, especially a horse, in a race) winning a race by being the first to reach the finish line. （参赛者，尤指赛马）因第一个到达终点线而获胜 Example sentencesExamples It was not always the favourites that came first past the post, which all added to the excitement. Think Big won the big race twice and Let's Elope and Saintly were amongst two of his other special charges who were first past the post. Local Claremorris man Finbar Donnellan also had a share in a horse that was first past the post in one of Wednesday's races. Tales abound of this man who walked 10 miles in his bare feet for cystic fibrosis in 1975 and was first past the post. Esha Ness, ridden by John White and trained by Jenny Pitman, was the first past the post but the race was later declared void. If he is first past the post then the victory will put a very serious dent in the profits on bookmakers operating in Ireland. Boxed in on the final corner by his rivals, he had to pull out all the stops up Cheltenham's notoriously unforgiving hill to ensure that he was first past the post. After two very promising performances it should be only a matter of time before Maryann The Dancer is first past the post. F1 Racing were first past the post in their game at Bay Horse Tadcaster. Kieran was first past the post in the 1500 metres on the Saturday, turning in an excellent time of 5.58. 1.1British attributiveDenoting an electoral system in which a candidate or party is selected by achievement of a simple majority. 〈英〉（指选举制度）以简单多数票当选的 our first-past-the-post electoral system 我们以简单多数票当选的选举制度。 Example sentencesExamples It returns Italy, after 12 years of flirtation with first past the post, to a proportional system. These are, of course, first past the post elections, and therefore difficult for us to make a mark on. We totally accept that no first past the post system is infallible. Britain uses the first past the post formula and the candidate receiving the most votes is elected, regardless of whether or not he has a majority of votes cast. But - and it's a very big ‘but’ - under first past the post, the power of government goes to the party of the plurality, to the largest minority. Secondly, making an electoral breakthrough in a first past the post electoral system remains tough. The first past the post system always unfairly rewards the largest parties, but the results become particularly arbitrary when their share of the vote is relatively small. Its genuinely difficult to figure out the Indian voter, and more importantly the first past the post system can make a few percentage difference in vote share seem like a land slide. We proved under the first past the post system in Preston that we can win. The first past the post system won't deliver that. first thing Early in the morning; before anything else. 一大早；要做的第一件事 I have to meet Josh first thing tomorrow 我明天一大早就得去接乔希。 Example sentencesExamples They had the chance to do that either on Friday night or first thing in the morning before we were to set out. I needed a drink first thing in the morning and a bag of heroin in the afternoon. Revise when you want to revise, be it first thing in the morning or late at night. We have street cleansing teams out from first thing in the morning until late at night. They stay the night, go to the bank with the boss first thing in the morning and help themselves. Harry goes for his annual jabs first thing in the morning and I shall need all my wits about me. He gets fed first thing in the morning before I go to work and again when I get home. I work from home running a small business and need my post first thing in the morning. His father had left lists of producers and agents that he would call first thing in the morning. I know that the first thing in the morning I'll be wandering into work on my day off to find it. first things first Used to assert that important matters should be dealt with before other things. 急事急办 Example sentencesExamples A proper education enables young people to put their lives in order, which means knowing which things are more important than other things; it means putting first things first. But first things first - he knows he'd better make good on his campaign promise and fix that village road. We'll talk a lot about the book and your extraordinary story, but let's first deal with first things first. Let's deal with first things first, and the thing that's getting the most attention is the headline grabber. But first things first, you have to have other goals first, just getting in there and getting game time is the first step. We'll talk a lot about the book in a little while, but first let's get to first things first, and that's the major story of the day, Andy, and what do you make of the inspectors? So there is a lot to be done, but first things first. I believe that this is putting the horse before the cart, practicing first things first and the value-added benefit to this approach will spell returns in the short run too. But first things first and that means a result in Bray on Friday. So, first things first, I really liked Star Wars. from the (very) first From the beginning or the early stages. 起先，起初，开始时 he should have realized it from the first 他一开始就应当认识到这一点。 Example sentencesExamples He had been an easy delivery and Erin loved her little boy from the very first. It is true to say that, from the first, the country's attitude to Europe has been ambivalent. She was headstrong and determined to have her way from the very first. The central problems of the Empire, present from the very first, were revealed plainly in the crisis. It was a genius that Bolzano saw from the very first. I know that that is what God had intended from the very first. When we notice the geese afresh we realize, as Ma Tsu says, they've been there from the very first. They were encouraged from the first to be scrupulous in their use of various powers. Siegfried, his head grader driver, ran one crew while Steve, who'd been with him from the very first, oversaw the other. No wonder I'd felt connected to Antonio from the very first. Synonyms the beginning, the very beginning, the start, the outset, the commencement from first to last From beginning to end; throughout. 从头至尾，自始至终；彻底地，完全地 it's a fine performance that commands attention from first to last 这是一场精彩的演出，自始至终抓住了观众的注意力。 Example sentencesExamples Mr Donne said: ‘A very clear thread runs through this case, the thread of the aggression of these three men from first to last.’ Clyde were totally dominant from first to last in a game Celtic fans must have been begging to end. As regards the plaintiff, he has been wrong from first to last. On paper, Aberdeen seemed inadequately equipped to slug it out with O'Neill's team, but their commitment was ferocious from first to last. There's been unbroken sunshine from first to last, with barely a token cloud in the sky. Playing three groups ahead of the leaders and experiencing the same difficult conditions, Olazabal was quite something, his putting breathtaking from first to last. It was into the second half before the important second goal arrived, but Hibs were dominant from first to last. By contrast, Thomas Otway's Venice Preserved commands our aesthetic and political attention from first to last. Her whole speech was a success from first to last, an appropriate effort. They weren't always enthusiastic supporters; they were skeptical from first to last. in the first place 首次，初次，第一次 1As the first consideration or point. 首先，第一 political reality was not quite that simple—in the first place, divisions existed within the parties 政治现实远非那么简单——首先，党内存在着分歧。 Example sentencesExamples It wasn't as if the Mini was an especially greedy consumer of petrol in the first place. This is, in fact, one of the principle reasons the Top Table was created in the first place. He's right, but he's got a nerve considering his party broke that link in the first place. He refers to one recent study which considers the reasons why bloggers blog in the first place. That was one of the primary issues that prompted the application in the first place. None of the new measures seem to consider addressing the main cause of the problem in the first place. To answer this we must consider whether Doris's acceptance is valid in the first place. Synonyms in addition to, as well as, over and above 1.1At the beginning; to begin with (especially in reference to the time when an action was being planned or discussed) 在开始时；最初；起初（尤指行动尚在计划或讨论时） I should have told you in the first place 我本应一开始就告诉你的。 Example sentencesExamples By the way, why do you feel the need to mention the fact that you carry a knife in the first place? If you believe you have been misled complain to the company or person who sold you the plan in the first place. What makes me feel so really stupid is how I actually managed to begin smoking in the first place. It is always important to remind ourselves who created this state of affairs in the first place. If he didn't think Scott was good enough, why did he pick him in the first place? When it was all over, I re-read the play to try and see what it was that had made me write it in the first place. He is so loving and kind that I immediately remember why I fell in love with him in the first place. The hard thing, as I'm finding out, is getting the people in there in the first place. Having made an issue of the attacks in the first place, they now say that this is nothing for us to worry about. Sadly, it also gave me the chance to remember why we had lost touch in the first place. of the first order (or magnitude) Used to denote something that is excellent or considerable of its kind. 头等的，最高级的；头等重要的 it is a media event of the first order 这是头等新闻事件。 Example sentencesExamples While I am a technology fanatic of the first order, I see the future of high-wage nations largely as services-driven. Warming up, he says: ‘The transatlantic relationship remains an asset of the first order.’ However, the overall campaign was a disaster of the first order. It was a disaster of the first order, but Daun was still wary of the ever-aggressive Frederick, with reason. But to say that it's all going to come out fine, that always struck me as being wishful thinking of the first order. His achievement, though easily taken for granted, was the work of an analytical mind of the first order, and he deserves much more honor than he has so far received. We have been waiting for this recording for years and now that it is here, one can safely say that it is indeed a masterpiece of the first order. Then there's Bernov's trademark balalaika-bass, a four-stringed oddity of the first order, pictured above for your amusement. Is this wickedness of the first order or rational economic behaviour? Sarris calls the film ‘a masterpiece of the first order.’ Synonyms of the utmost importance, of the greatest significance, very important, of importance, of significance, of note, of great moment, of great consequence Origin Old English fyr(e)st; of Germanic origin, related to Old Norse fyrstr and German Fürst ‘prince’, from an Indo-European root shared by Sanskrit prathama, Latin primus, and Greek prōtos. ord.1 phr.
随便看	concur with concur with concur with/in concuss concussation concussed concussed concussed concussion concussional concussions concussive concussive concussive con-delegate condemn condemnable condemnable condemnation condemnation condemnations condemnatory condemnatory condemned condemned