first annual: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘first annual’ mean?

The idiom "first annual" refers to an event or activity that is planned to occur annually in the future. It implies that the event is being held for the first time but will be repeated annually in the years to come.

Idiom Explorer

Deciphering Inaugural Year

The idiom "first annual" has a unique meaning and usage in American English. It refers to an event or occurrence that is in its inaugural year but is anticipated to become a recurring annual tradition.

The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the early 19th century in the United States. The concept of labeling an event or activity as the "first annual" was initially influenced by the growing popularity of annual fairs, exhibitions, and agricultural shows.

The usage of the phrase "first annual" gained prominence with the establishment of professional sporting leagues and organizations in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Over time, the usage of "first annual" expanded beyond the realm of sports and became more prevalent in other domains such as entertainment, charity fundraisers, and business conferences.

However, the idiom "first annual" has sparked debates among language enthusiasts and style guides.

The idiom "first of never" is related to the phrase "first annual". It is used to express skepticism or doubt about the likelihood of something happening again in the future. In contrast, "first annual" implies the expectation of recurrence.

The first annual event marked the inaugural ceremony.

The idiom "first and last" is another related phrase that is used to indicate finality or the end of something. While "first annual" suggests the beginning of a recurring event, "first and last" implies that it is the only occurrence.

"at first" is an idiom that signifies the initial stage or earliest point of something. In the context of "first annual," it can be used to describe the beginning of the inaugural event or the early planning stages.

"first of all" is an idiom commonly used to introduce the first point or step in a series of actions or arguments. In relation to "first annual," it can be used to emphasize the importance or priority of the inaugural event.

"in the first place" is an idiom that is used to introduce a reason or explanation for something. In the context of "first annual," it can be used to provide background information or justification for holding the inaugural event.

The phrase "first annual" has withstood linguistic debates and continues to be widely accepted and understood in contemporary American English.

The idiom "first annual" has evolved over time to signify an event or activity in its inaugural year with the expectation of becoming a recurring annual tradition.

The phrase captures the essence of planning for the future while acknowledging and celebrating a new beginning.

It reflects the ever-evolving nature of language and leaves room for ongoing discussions around the intricacies of idiomatic expressions.

Example usage

1. The organization is hosting its first annual charity event next month. This example demonstrates the use of "first annual" to describe an event that is being held for the first time and is expected to take place every year thereafter.

2. The company is celebrating its first annual sales conference. In this instance, "first annual" is used to indicate that it is the inaugural sales conference organized by the company, implying that it will become an annual tradition.

3. Our school is gearing up for its first annual talent show. Here, "first annual" is used to signify that it is the first occurrence of the talent show, and it is anticipated that it will become an annual event at the school.

More "Annual" idioms

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