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In the First Place

What Does "In the First Place" Mean?

homeidiomsIn the First Place
"In the first place" is an English idiom. It means "originally; to start with."

Examples in Sentences

Here are three examples of the idiom "in the first place" used in a sentence:
  • Why did you invite him in the first place if you didn't want him to come?
  • I should've never trusted her in the first place.
  • If you didn't want to go, why did you agree in the first place?
meaning for in the first place

What Is an Idiom?

An idiom is a commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words, if you were to translate "In the First Place" word for word, there is no guarantee the translation would help you to understand the meaning.

An idiom often includes a cultural or historical context that makes it difficult for non-native English speakers to understand. A phrase is classified as an idiom when a direct translation of the words does not reveal the meaning. Most idioms rely on shared knowledge or experiences known only to a specific community.

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