23+ Other Ways to Say “For the First Time”2025

“There are numerous ways to express ‘for the first time’ in English, each adding variety and nuance to your conversation!”

When you’re telling someone about an experience you’ve had, using the phrase “for the first time” is common.

However, the English language is rich with synonyms and expressions that can help diversify your vocabulary and keep conversations more engaging.

Whether you’re sharing a new experience or recounting an important event, changing up how you say “for the first time” can add more flavor to your storytelling.

The ability to express the idea of doing something “for the first time” in various ways can not only enhance your language skills but also make your speech sound more dynamic.

In this blog, we’ll discuss different expressions that mean the same thing as “for the first time” and provide practical examples for how to use them.

This will give you the flexibility to choose the best expression depending on your context, whether formal or casual.

Whether you’re writing an email, chatting with friends, or speaking at work, knowing how to substitute “for the first time” with other expressions will help you communicate more naturally.

Let’s take a look at 30 different ways to say “for the first time,” with examples and explanations for each one.

1. For the Initial Time

This expression conveys the idea of something happening at the beginning of a process.
Example Scenario: You’re talking about your first day at a new job.
Email Example: “Hi Laura, I wanted to share that today I worked on the project for the initial time, and it went really well.”

2. The First Occasion

This phrase emphasizes the specific moment when something happens for the first time.
Example Scenario: You’re describing a special event in your life.
Email Example: “Hey John, I’ll never forget the first occasion I met my favorite author.”

3. At the Outset

This phrase refers to the very beginning or start of something.
Example Scenario: Talking about a new project you’ve started.
Email Example: “I’m excited to work on this, especially since this is at the outset of a new chapter.”

4. The First Instance

A formal way of referring to something that happens for the first time.
Example Scenario: You’re explaining a first-time experience in an academic context.
Email Example: “Dear Professor, I’m writing to inform you that this will be the first instance I will be attending your class.”

5. Initially

“Initially” suggests the beginning stage or first occurrence of something.
Example Scenario: Describing the start of a new relationship.
Email Example: “Initially, I was hesitant to join the group, but I’m glad I did.”

6. On the First Try

This phrase indicates success or action occurring during the first attempt.
Example Scenario You’re talking about trying a new skill or task.
Email Example: “I managed to bake a cake on the first try, and it turned out great!”

7. At First

A simple expression referring to the start of something.
Example Scenario: Reflecting on your initial thoughts when starting something new.
Email Example: “At first, I didn’t think I’d enjoy the movie, but I ended up loving it!”

8. On My Debut

This expression refers to a person’s first public appearance or performance.
Example Scenario: You’re talking about your first performance or public speaking event.
Email Example: “Thanks for attending my debut at the company event. It was an unforgettable experience.”

9. For the Opening Time

A phrase that refers to something happening for the first opportunity.
Example Scenario: Talking about attending a special event for the first time.
Email Example: “I’ll be attending the concert for the opening time next month!”

Other Ways to Say “Stay Tuned”

10. For the Very First Time

This phrase is a more emphatic way to express something happening for the first time.
Example Scenario: You’re explaining a unique experience.
Email Example: “I traveled to Japan for the very first time last year, and it was amazing!”

11. On the Inaugural Occasion

A formal expression, often used in professional or celebratory contexts.
Example Scenario: Discussing the first event of an ongoing series.
Email Example: “I was fortunate to attend the inaugural occasion of this conference.”

12. As a Newcomer

A phrase used when you are experiencing something new.
Example Scenario: You’re starting your first day at a new job.
Email Example: “As a newcomer to the team, I’m eager to learn and contribute.”

13. On the First Attempt

This phrase is often used when you succeed on your first try.
Example Scenario: You’re explaining how you did something new with success.
Email Example: “I managed to complete the task on the first attempt. It wasn’t as hard as I thought!”

14. In the Beginning

A simple phrase that refers to the initial part of something.
Example Scenario: Reflecting on the start of a long-term project.
Email Example: “In the beginning, I wasn’t sure how to approach the task, but I quickly adapted.”

15. For the Maiden Time

“Maiden” refers to something that is done for the very first time, often used for events.
Example Scenario: You’re discussing your first solo trip.
Email Example: “I traveled to Paris for the maiden time last summer, and it was an incredible experience.”

16. As a Beginner

This phrase highlights that something is being done by someone new to the activity.
Example Scenario: Discussing a hobby or activity you’ve just started.
Email Example: “I tried painting as a beginner and found it more enjoyable than I expected.”

17. On the First Day

A specific phrase used for events happening during the first day of something.
Example Scenario: You’re talking about your first day at work or school.
Email Example: “I had a great time on my first day at the office, getting to know the team.”

18. For the First Ever Time

An expression that stresses the uniqueness of the event.
Example Scenario: You’re describing an event that’s never happened before.
Email Example: “We’re having our first ever time hosting a charity event this weekend!”

19. On the First Occasion

A phrase that refers to an event occurring for the first time.
Example Scenario: Discussing your first visit to a place.
Email Example: “I visited New York on the first occasion, and I was amazed by the city’s energy.”

20. At the Outset of

This phrase emphasizes the beginning or launch of something new.
Example Scenario: Talking about the start of a business or project.
Email Example: “We started our project at the outset of the year, and it’s been successful so far.”

21. At the Commencement

A formal way to refer to the beginning of something, often used in professional contexts.
Example Scenario: Talking about the start of an important event.
Email Example: “At the commencement of the ceremony, I was welcomed with great enthusiasm.”

22. On the First Occasion

Another formal way of referring to a first-time event.
Example Scenario: Discussing your first meeting with a business partner.
Email Example: “It was a pleasure meeting you on the first occasion, I look forward to collaborating.”

23. As an Initiate

This refers to someone new to a group or task, doing something for the first time.
Example Scenario: You’re discussing your introduction to a new role.
Email Example: “As an initiate in the company, I’m excited to contribute to the team.”

24. From the Start

This phrase indicates something happening from the very beginning.
Example Scenario: Describing a project that’s just beginning.
Email Example: “From the start, the project has been running smoothly with excellent teamwork.”

25. At the Outset of

A formal and professional way of expressing the beginning of a process or task.
Example Scenario: Talking about a long-term business plan.
Email Example: “At the outset of the project, we outlined our goals to ensure success.”

26. The Opening Moment

A way to refer to the very first moment something happens.
Example Scenario: Discussing the start of a special occasion or event.
Email Example: “The opening moment of the concert was spectacular, with an amazing light show.”

27. At the Introduction

A phrase that suggests the start or initiation of something new.
Example Scenario: Introducing yourself in a new setting.
Email Example: “At the introduction of the course, we learned the basic concepts of data analysis.”

28. For the First Phase

A reference to the initial stage of a process or event.
Example Scenario: Talking about the first part of a project.
Email Example: “We are currently working on the first phase of the development, focusing on research.”

29. Upon First Encounter

This phrase implies an initial meeting or experience.
Example Scenario:Talking about meeting someone for the first time.
Email Example: “Upon first encounter, I was impressed by your knowledge of the industry.”

30. In the Beginning Stages

This phrase highlights the early part of a process or event.
Example Scenario: Talking about a new business idea or project.
Email Example: “We’re still in the beginning stages of the project, but we’re making good progress.”

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I say “for the first time” more formally?

You can use phrases like “on the inaugural occasion” or “at the outset” for more formal contexts.

What are casual ways to express “for the first time”?

Casual alternatives include “on my debut”, “on the first try”, or “at first.”

Can “initially” be used as a synonym for “for the first time”?

Yes, “initially” can be used to describe something occurring at the start, making it a good synonym.

When should I use “on the first attempt”?

Use “on the first attempt” when referring to the success of an activity or task done for the first time.

What’s the best phrase to use for a memorable first

experience?
“For the maiden time” is great for memorable or significant first-time experiences.

Conclusion

Expanding your vocabulary with various ways to say “for the first time” allows you to sound more fluent and engage in conversations.

Whether you’re telling a story, recounting an experience, or starting something new, these 30 alternatives offer more color and variety in your communication.

Select the most fitting expression based on your context, and watch your English improve!