35 Other Ways to Say “For the First Time”

“Every new experience is a chance to discover something amazing.”

Experiencing something for the first time can be thrilling, nerve-wracking, or eye-opening. Whether it’s a new job, a first date, or simply trying a new dish, these moments shape our lives and memories.

While saying “for the first time” is perfectly fine, there are numerous alternative phrases that can add color and depth to your expressions.

This post provides 35 creative alternatives to saying “for the first time,” along with scenarios and tips for using them effectively. Whether you’re sharing your experiences or writing about them, these phrases will help you convey the excitement of new experiences.

1. “Inaugurally”

Scenario: Sarah tells her friends about her inaugural visit to Paris.
Subject Explanation: This formal term indicates the first occurrence of something, often used in official contexts.
Additional Tip: Use this term in more formal writing or presentations to add sophistication.

2. “At the outset”

Scenario: John reflects on his journey at the outset of his new career.
Subject Explanation: This phrase highlights the very beginning of an experience or process.
Additional Tip: Consider using it to set the stage for a story or narrative.

3. “Initially”

Scenario: Priya describes how she felt initially during her first solo trip.
Subject Explanation: This word refers to the first stage of something, often suggesting change over time.
Additional Tip: Use it to contrast initial feelings with later experiences.

4. “For the inaugural time”

Scenario: Tom talks about his inaugural skydiving experience with excitement.
Subject Explanation: Similar to “inaugurally,” this phrase emphasizes the significance of a first occurrence.
Additional Tip: Pair this with details about what made the experience special.

5. “At the very beginning”

Scenario: Emily shares her thoughts about her relationship at the very beginning.
Subject Explanation: This phrase emphasizes the starting point of an experience or journey.
Additional Tip: Use it to highlight the contrasts with current circumstances.

6. “As a newcomer”

Scenario: Jake describes his feelings as a newcomer to the city during his first week.
Subject Explanation: This phrase refers to someone who is new to a place or situation.
Additional Tip: Share experiences that illustrate the challenges and excitement of being new.

7. “On this occasion”

Scenario: Fatima expresses her feelings about trying sushi on this occasion.
Subject Explanation: This phrase signifies a specific event or experience, especially one that is noteworthy.
Additional Tip: Use it to highlight the uniqueness of a particular experience.

8. “In my debut”

Scenario: Maria describes her debut performance in a local theater.
Subject Explanation: This term emphasizes a first performance or appearance.
Additional Tip: Include details about the preparation leading up to the debut.

9. “For the very first instance”

Scenario: Ahmed recounts his experiences for the very first instance he traveled abroad.
Subject Explanation: This phrase underscores the uniqueness of the experience.
Additional Tip: Use it when emphasizing the significance of a moment in your narrative.

10. “For the opening chapter”

Scenario: Sarah shares her thoughts on the opening chapter of her new life in a different country.
Subject Explanation: This phrase signifies the start of a new journey, much like a book.
Additional Tip: Relate it to personal growth or new beginnings.

11. “In my first experience”

Scenario: Liam discusses his first experience riding a motorcycle.
Subject Explanation: This phrase makes it clear that you are referring to a specific initial experience.
Additional Tip: Describe what you learned during that first experience to enhance the narrative.

12. “At the start”

Scenario: Priya reflects on her feelings at the start of her new job.
Subject Explanation: This phrase indicates the beginning of any process or event.
Additional Tip: Use it to create a sense of progression as you share your journey.

13. “During my first encounter”

Scenario: Michael recounts his first encounter with the ocean during a family vacation.
Subject Explanation: This phrase emphasizes a specific meeting or interaction for the first time.
Additional Tip: Describe the sensory details of the encounter to make it vivid.

14. “In my maiden voyage”

Scenario: Fatima shares her excitement about her maiden voyage on a cruise.
Subject Explanation: This phrase refers to the first journey, often used in nautical contexts.
Additional Tip: Use it to evoke feelings of adventure and exploration.

15. “For the first time ever”

Scenario: John mentions how he tried snowboarding for the first time ever during winter break.
Subject Explanation: This phrase adds emphasis, stressing that it’s a unique occurrence.
Additional Tip: Use it for moments that feel particularly significant.

16. “In my first outing”

Scenario: Maria describes her first outing at a local music festival.
Subject Explanation: This phrase refers to an initial trip or activity, often outside the home.
Additional Tip: Include details about what made the outing memorable.

17. “During my first time”

Scenario: Priya reflects on her feelings during her first time attending a concert.
Subject Explanation: This phrase is straightforward, indicating a specific experience.
Additional Tip: Share contrasting feelings from that experience compared to future ones.

18. “For the very first go”

Scenario: Ahmed shares his thoughts on his very first go at rock climbing.
Subject Explanation: This phrase emphasizes the attempt of trying something new.
Additional Tip: Discuss the lessons learned during that first attempt.

19. “In this fresh encounter”

Scenario: Sarah describes her fresh encounter with the art of pottery.
Subject Explanation: This phrase indicates a new and unique experience.
Additional Tip: Share how this encounter opened your eyes to new interests.

20. “At the dawn of”

Scenario: Tom talks about his feelings at the dawn of his new career.
Subject Explanation: This phrase signifies the very beginning of an event or experience.
Additional Tip: Use it to create a poetic tone in your narrative.

21. “In my early days”

Scenario: Priya reflects on her early days of learning to cook.
Subject Explanation: This phrase suggests the beginning phase of an experience.
Additional Tip: Discuss how far you’ve come since those early days.

22. “As a first-timer”

Scenario: Liam shares his experience as a first-timer at a cooking class.
Subject Explanation: This phrase indicates that someone is new to a particular activity.
Additional Tip: Share the challenges faced and how they were overcome.

23. “On my initial journey”

Scenario: Fatima describes her feelings on her initial journey abroad.
Subject Explanation: This phrase emphasizes the first trip or adventure someone undertakes.
Additional Tip: Highlight the emotional significance of this journey.

24. “As a novice”

Scenario: Michael discusses his experience as a novice gardener.
Subject Explanation: This term indicates someone who is new to a particular field or activity.
Additional Tip: Share the learning curve experienced during this phase.

25. “In my first trial”

Scenario: Priya recounts her first trial of rock climbing at an indoor gym.
Subject Explanation: This phrase emphasizes the first attempt at something.
Additional Tip: Include what you learned from that trial to provide insight.

26. “In my premier experience”

Scenario: Sarah shares her thoughts about her premier experience at a film festival.
Subject Explanation: This term is synonymous with “debut” and emphasizes the significance of the event.
Additional Tip: Include details about what made the experience special or unique.

Other Ways to Say “Make a Difference”

27. “As a rookie”

Scenario: John talks about his feelings as a rookie in his new job.
Subject Explanation: This term indicates someone who is new or inexperienced in a particular field.
Additional Tip: Share what challenges you faced as a rookie.

28. “For the opening act”

Scenario: Fatima reflects on the opening act of her journey in dance classes.
Subject Explanation: This phrase suggests the beginning of a series of events or experiences.
Additional Tip: Relate the opening act to the overall journey and growth.

29. “For the first occasion”

Scenario: Maria mentions her excitement for the first occasion of attending a wedding.
Subject Explanation: This phrase emphasizes the significance of a particular event.
Additional Tip: Share personal anecdotes related to the occasion.

30. “In my first adventure”

Scenario: Ahmed shares his experiences during his first adventure hiking.
Subject Explanation: This phrase emphasizes the thrill and excitement of a new endeavor.
Additional Tip: Discuss how this adventure influenced your perspective.

31. “At the premiere”

Scenario: Tom expresses his excitement about attending the premiere of a new movie.
Subject Explanation: This phrase refers to the first public performance or showing of something.
Additional Tip: Share details about your expectations versus reality.

32. “On my first journey”

Scenario: Sarah describes her emotions on her first journey to a different country.
Subject Explanation: This phrase indicates the initial trip someone takes.
Additional Tip: Highlight cultural experiences that stood out during this journey.

33. “For the first time around”

Scenario: Liam talks about his experience during the first time around in a new role.
Subject Explanation: This phrase indicates the initial occurrence of an event or experience.
Additional Tip: Use it to reflect on changes from the first occurrence to later ones.

34. “During my first exploration”

Scenario: Priya discusses her first exploration of a new city.
Subject Explanation: This phrase emphasizes the initial discovery or adventure in a new place.
Additional Tip: Include sensory details to make the experience come alive.

35. “On this new journey”

Scenario: Fatima shares her excitement about starting a new journey in her career.
Subject Explanation: This phrase indicates the beginning of an exciting new chapter.
Additional Tip: Use it to highlight your aspirations and hopes for the future.

Pros and Cons of Expressing “For the First Time”

Pros:

• Adds Variety: Using different phrases can make your language more engaging and dynamic.
• Enhances Clarity: Some phrases provide additional context or nuance to the experience.
• Creates Interest: Unique expressions can captivate your audience’s attention and keep them intrigued.

Cons:

• Potential Confusion: Some phrases might not be familiar to everyone, leading to misunderstandings.
• Overcomplication: Sometimes, simpler language is more effective; avoid overly complex terms.
• Inconsistency: Using too many varied phrases can make your writing feel disjointed.

Conclusion

Exploring different ways to say “for the first time” can enrich your storytelling and enhance your communication. By incorporating these phrases into your vocabulary, you can effectively convey the excitement and significance of new experiences.

Whether you’re sharing your own adventures or writing creatively, these alternatives will help you capture the essence of those unforgettable moments. Embrace the thrill of discovery, and don’t hesitate to express it uniquely!