This is the first time is a common fixed expression used to describe first-time experiences. In this article, IDP will explain how to correctly use this structure in English grammar and how to apply it effectively in both daily communication and IELTS preparation.
1. What Does This Is the First Time Mean?
The phrase this is the first time means “this is the first occasion.” It is used to talk about something that is happening for the very first time in someone’s life or experience.
Structure breakdown:
This – demonstrative pronoun
Is – present form of the verb “to be”
First – ordinal adjective indicating order
Time – noun meaning the moment or instance
You can also use it is the first time with the same meaning to emphasize that something has never happened before.
Examples:
This is the first time I have traveled alone.
This is the first time I have made a cake for my boyfriend.
2. How to Use This Is the First Time in English
This structure is used to describe first-time experiences and typically follows this grammatical formula:
This is the first time + S + have/has + V3 (past participle)
Examples:
This is the first time I have visited Japan.
This is the first time he has cried during a movie.
Important notes:
This structure always goes with the present perfect tense.
Do not use before in rewritten sentences with this is the first time.
3. Similar Structures to This Is the First Time
Besides this is the first time, there are other ways to express similar meanings in English:
It is the first time
Structure: It is the first time + S + have/has + V3
Example: It is the first time I have tried to drive a car.
The first time
Structure: The first time + S + V (past simple)
Example: The first time I saw an ugly fish in real life, it was not as scary as I thought.
Using “ever”
Example: I have never eaten sushi, ever = This is the first time I have eaten sushi.
Using “before”
Structure: S + have/has never + V3 + before
Example: She has never spoken in front of a large audience before.
4. Extended Forms of This Is the First Time
You can modify the base structure to suit different contexts:
Add “ever” for emphasis
Example: This is the first time ever she has been drunk.
Past and future forms
Past: It was the first time + S + had + V3
Future: It will be the first time + S + have/has + V3
Examples:
It was the first time I had seen snow.
It will be the first time she has met him.
Change “first” to “second,” “third,” etc.
Example: This is the second time my car has broken down this week.
Change the position of the phrase
Example: I made nut milk successfully for the first time.
5. Grammar Notes When Using This Is the First Time
This structure includes two clauses:
The main clause (e.g. this is the first time)
The subordinate clause (e.g. someone has done something)
Present use:
Main clause in present simple
Subordinate clause in present perfect
Example: This is the first time she has cut her hair short.
Past use:
Main clause in past simple
Subordinate clause in past perfect
Example: It was the first time I had flown on a plane.
6. Practice Exercises with Answers
Exercise 1: Find and correct the mistakes
This was the first time Ana drink alcohol.
It is the first time I got a good grade in literature.
The first time my sister ride a bike, she fell off.
He has never lie to his parents before.
That is the first time I saw my father cry.
Correct answers:
drink → drank
got → have got
ride → rode
lie → lied
saw → have seen
Exercise 2: Rewrite the following sentences
She has never played the violin before. → This is the first time she has played the violin.
I have never been to a Japanese restaurant before. → It is the first time I have been to a Japanese restaurant.
I last visited my mother's hometown two years ago. → I have not visited my mother's hometown for two years.
My parents have never visited my university before. → This is the first time my parents have visited my university.
This is the first time I have participated in organising a charity event. → I have never participated in organising a charity event before.
Master English Grammar Structures with IDP
This is the first time is a useful structure for expressing new or unique experiences. It can also be modified into different forms like it is the first time, the first time, or even paired with ever or before to add variety to your sentence structure. Mastering these expressions can help you score higher in the IELTS Speaking and Writing sections.
To improve your grammar and vocabulary further, explore IDP’s free IELTS study materials. If you are preparing for your IELTS test, you can choose between IELTS Academic and IELTS General, with the option to take the test on a computer. You can also register for a free IELTS mock test to get familiar with the format and time pressure.
Choose your ideal test date and register for IELTS with IDP today!