it’s the first time ...

• Expressão usada para indicar que uma ação ou experiência acontece pela primeira vez: «É a primeira vez que...», «É a primeira vez...».

A fixed introductory clause used to mark that an action or experience is occurring for the first time in the speaker's (or subject's) life or within a specified timeframe. Typically followed by a subordinate clause in the present perfect (for present reference) or past perfect (for past reference). The conjunction 'that' is often omitted in informal usage.

PadrõesIt · 's · the · first · time · SLOT

1. Marking a novel experience in present timeA2formal

   Used with present tense 'It's' (It is) followed by a clause in the present perfect to indicate that the speaker or subject is undergoing an action or experience for the first time up to the present moment. Emphasizes the novelty and personal significance of the event. The subordinate clause typically uses present perfect ('I've done', 'she's seen'), though present simple may appear in informal speech.

   Indicação de nova experiência no tempo presente

   • It's the first time I've visited London.
   • It's the first time she's tried sushi.
   • It's the first time we've worked on a project together.
   • It's the first time he's felt this confident.
   • It's the first time they've missed a deadline.

2. Referencing a first-time event in past narrativeB1formal

   Used with past tense 'It was' followed by a clause in the past perfect to situate a first-time experience within a past timeframe. Common in storytelling, biographies, or reflective accounts. Maintains the same logical structure as the present version but shifts temporal reference to a completed past moment.

   Referência a um evento pela primeira vez em narrativa passada

   • It was the first time I had flown alone.
   • It was the first time she had spoken in public.
   • It was the first time they had encountered such a problem.
   • It was the first time he had felt truly understood.
   • It was the first time we had seen the northern lights.

3. Emphasizing emotional impact or milestone significanceB1informal

   Used rhetorically to highlight the emotional weight, personal growth, or symbolic importance of a first-time experience. Often accompanied by adverbs (really, ever, actually) or evaluative language to intensify the statement. Common in personal narratives, testimonials, and expressive communication.

   Ênfase no impacto emocional ou na importância de um marco

   • It's the first time I've ever felt this proud.
   • It's the first time she's actually stood up for herself.
   • It's the first time we've really connected on this topic.
   • It's the first time he's admitted he was wrong.
   • It's the first time they've celebrated without worry.