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’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

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

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

I knew English wasn’t their first language and had real doubts about how much they were even following what I said, but when I finished, they erupted into vigorous applause.

From "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson