Meaning and Usage
"初めて" (はじめて) means "for the first time" and is used to describe an action or experience occurring for the first time in someone's life or in a particular context. It often emphasizes the novelty or unfamiliarity of the event.
Common Contexts
You will frequently hear "初めて" when talking about new experiences, such as traveling to a new place, meeting someone new, or trying a new activity. It can be used both in casual and polite speech.
Typical Collocations
- 初めて〜する: to do something for the first time
- 初めて会う: to meet someone for the first time
- 初めての経験: first experience
Usage Notes
"初めて" is often used with verbs in the past tense to indicate that the action happened once for the first time. It can also be used with feelings or states, such as "初めて緊張した" (I was nervous for the first time).
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "初めて" with "始めて" (also read はじめて), which can mean "starting" or "beginning" an action. Remember that "初めて" focuses on the first occurrence or experience, while "始めて" emphasizes the start of an action.