first edition: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Formal, Academic, Bibliographic, Collecting
Quick answer
What does “first edition” mean?
the original published version of a book, especially when printed in multiple subsequent editions.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
the original published version of a book, especially when printed in multiple subsequent editions.
The initial release or version of any published work, product, or collectible item, often valued for its originality, historical significance, or potential scarcity.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences. UK English may more commonly use 'first edition' in a bibliographic/library context, while US usage is prominent in the commercial collector's market.
Connotations
Connotations are identical: collectibility, originality, and potential high value.
Frequency
Slightly higher frequency in UK English in formal publishing contexts; equally common in both variants in everyday use.
Grammar
How to Use “first edition” in a Sentence
first edition of [BOOK TITLE]a first editionthe first editionin the first editionfirst edition, first printingVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “first edition” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- A first-edition copy can be surprisingly affordable.
- He specialises in first-edition Victorian novels.
American English
- She owns a first-edition Hemingway.
- The first-edition print run was only 500 copies.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Referring to the launch of a product line: 'The first edition of the software suite had several bugs.'
Academic
In citations and bibliographies: 'This argument appears in the first edition of his seminal work.'
Everyday
Talking about books: 'I found a first edition of that novel at a car boot sale.'
Technical
In publishing/collecting: 'Identifying a first edition requires checking the printer's key on the copyright page.'
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “first edition”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “first edition”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “first edition”
- Using 'edition' interchangeably with 'addition' (e.g., 'first addition').
- Assuming all old books are first editions.
- Using it as a verb (e.g., 'They first editioned the book in 1999' – incorrect).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Typically, yes. 'First edition, first printing' specifies the very first batch of copies from the original plates/setting. Later printings within the same edition are not as valuable.
Check the copyright page. Modern books often state 'First Edition' or have a number line ending in '1'. For older books, specific typographical details or the absence of later corrections are key.
No, it can apply to any published series, like magazines, comic books, maps, or even limited-run products (e.g., 'first edition' video game consoles).
Value depends on demand, condition, scarcity, and cultural significance. A modern novel with a huge first print run is common, while a scarce, sought-after classic can be extremely valuable.
the original published version of a book, especially when printed in multiple subsequent editions.
First edition is usually formal, academic, bibliographic, collecting in register.
First edition: in British English it is pronounced /ˌfɜːst ɪˈdɪʃ(ə)n/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌfɜːrst əˈdɪʃ(ə)n/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A first edition, first printing (emphasizing the earliest state)”
- “True first (collector's term for the very first appearance)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'FIRST EDITION' as 'FIRST' in a race of printings. The very first one to cross the finish line is the most special.
Conceptual Metaphor
ORIGINALITY IS VALUE (The closer to the source/origin, the more valuable the object).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary factor that makes a 'first edition' valuable to collectors?