first language
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
It especially fails the person whose first language is Spanish and who has never heard the term “Locally Preferred Alternative” in any language.
From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 28, 2026
It’s a really fast-moving show, and if English is not your first language, like for my parents, then it’s quite hard to follow along.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 28, 2026
Some were less comfortable with the possibility of false positives, since there are often autistic people, or users whose first language isn’t English, whose writing styles are stigmatized as A.I.-like.
From Slate ● Apr. 1, 2026
The MCC said the "removal of gendered language" will be "concluded" in the latest edition of the Laws along with "simplification" where possible given many readers will not speak English as a first language.
From BBC ● Feb. 3, 2026
My mom made sure English was the first language I spoke.
From "Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood" by Trevor Noah
