Meaning & use
at first glance
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Meaning
phrasefixed phrase
When something is seen or considered for the first time, before deeper knowledge.
Grammar: Used as an adverbial phrase at the beginning or end of a sentence.
Patterns
- at first glance, ...
- seem ... at first glance
- at first glance it seems/appears ...
At first glance, the problem seemed simple, but it turned out to be very complex.
The house looked small at first glance, but inside it was quite spacious.
At first glance, she seemed unfriendly, but she was just shy.
Common combinations
- at first glance seem
- The task may seem easy at first glance.
- at first glance appear
- The two paintings appear identical at first glance.
- at first glance, one would think
- At first glance, one would think it was a real diamond.
Synonyms and how they differ
- on the surface
- This also means 'when not examined closely', but it can imply a contrast with a deeper truth, similar to 'at first glance'.
- initially
- Initially means 'at the beginning', often in a process; it does not necessarily imply a visual or quick judgment.
Opposites
Commonly confused: at first glance or at first sight?
at first glance vs at first sight
'At first sight' is very similar but is often used in the phrase 'love at first sight'. 'At first glance' is more general and means 'when first seen or considered'.
Practice
Complete the sentence: '______, the offer looked good, but after reading the details, I realized it was a bad deal.'
Choose one answer.
'At first glance' is the correct idiom meaning 'when first considered'. 'At first sight' is possible but less common in this context and often refers to love. 'In first glance' and 'On first glance' are not standard English phrases.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “at first glance”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.