How to Pronounce "in the first instance"
expression
ˈɪn/, /ɪn/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈfɝst/ /ˈɪnstəns
in thuh FURST IN-stuhns
ˈɪn/ /ðə, ði/ /fˈɜːst/ /ˈɪnstəns
in thuh FURST IN-stuhns
Definition
This phrase means 'at first' or 'at the beginning,' often used to explain the first action or step in a process before something else happens later.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈɪn/, /ɪn/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈfɝst/ /ˈɪnstəns
British English
ˈɪn/ /ðə, ði/ /fˈɜːst/ /ˈɪnstəns
Simplified Pronunciation
US
in thuh FURST IN-stuhns
UK
in thuh FURST IN-stuhns
Listen in Context
In the first instance, please report any issues to the manager.
Doctors will try medication in the first instance before considering surgery.
You should contact customer service in the first instance if there is a problem.
In the first instance, we’ll try fixing it ourselves before calling for help.