Exploring the First Time: A Guide to Correct Usage of 'First Time' in English
When expressing an event or experience that is happening or has happened for the first time, choosing the correct tense in English can be a bit tricky. In this guide, we will delve into the proper ways to use 'first time' in various contexts, explaining the differences between the present perfect and past tense.
What is 'First Time'?
A 'first time' is an experience or event that has not occurred before, either in the present or the past. It can be used in different tenses, such as the present perfect (this is the first time) or the simple past (that was the first time).
Using Present Perfect Tense: 'This is the First Time'
The present perfect tense is used to describe actions that started in the past and have a connection to the present or actions that occurred at an unknown time in the past. With 'first time,' the present perfect tense can be used to describe an experience that has just happened or is still relevant in the present.
Example Sentences
This is the first time that we visit London. This is the third apple that I’ve eaten today. This is the second time that I’ve had to ask you to take out the garbage.In these examples, the speaker is referring to an action that started in the past and has a connection to the present. It reflects a current situation or a situation that is still relevant today.
Using Past Tense: 'That Was the First Time'
The simple past tense is used to describe completed actions in the past that are no longer relevant to the present. With 'first time,' the simple past tense can be used to describe an experience that has already occurred and is no longer relevant now.
Example Sentences
That was the first time for us to visit London. That was the first time I saw the Northern Lights. That was the first and last time I wore that dress.In these examples, the speaker is referring to a completed action that is in the past and is not relevant to the present. The actions have a definitive end.
Why Present Perfect Tense?
We use the present perfect tense when we talk about past actions that have a connection to the present. This tense is used to describe experiences that are still relevant now, and it can indicate that the action may happen again in the future.
For example, if you are currently in London for the first time, you might say:
This is the first time I've been to London. This is our first time in London.Here, the sentence conveys that it’s a new experience and that you might do it again in the future. If you have already visited London and are talking about a previous occasion, you might say:
That was the first time we visited London. That was the first time I had a chance to see Buckingham Palace.These sentences refer to a particular past action that no longer has a connection to the present.
Why Not 'This is the First Time Present Continuous'
While it is grammatically correct to say 'This is the first time that we are visiting London,' it is generally considered substandard. This construction implies that the action is ongoing and could be repeated in the future, which is not the intention when using 'first time' to describe a completed experience in the past.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Tense for 'First Time'
Selecting the appropriate tense for 'first time' is crucial to convey the intended meaning accurately. The present perfect tense is used to describe past actions that are still relevant in the present, while the simple past tense is used for completed actions in the past that no longer have a connection to the present. Understanding these nuances will help you express your experiences more clearly and effectively in English.