Definition

1. Adverb:
   • Immediately upon first seeing or encountering something or someone: Used to describe an immediate reaction, impression, or judgment formed the very first time something is seen or experienced.

Usage

• This phrase is used to emphasize the speed and initial nature of a reaction, often an emotional or judgmental one. It is commonly used in the fixed expression "love at first sight."
• It typically modifies an entire clause or follows a linking verb like "was."

Examples

• Adverb:
  • It was love at first sight when they met at the party. (Their romantic feelings began immediately when they saw each other.)
  • The problem seemed simple at first sight, but it was actually very complex. (The initial impression was of simplicity.)
  • He knew at first sight that the painting was a forgery. (He recognized it as a fake immediately upon seeing it.)

Advanced Usage

• "At first sight" vs. "On first sight": Both are generally interchangeable, with "at first sight" being slightly more common, especially in the idiom "love at first sight."
• Used to introduce a contrast between an initial impression and a later, deeper understanding.
  • At first sight, the agreement appears fair, but the details reveal significant problems.

Variants and Related Words

• At first glance: A very similar phrase meaning "after a quick look," often used interchangeably with "at first sight" for non-romantic contexts.
  • At first glance, the data supports our theory.
• First impression: The initial opinion formed about someone or something.

Synonyms

• Immediately: At once; instantly.
• Upon first view: When first seen.
• On the face of it: Based on the first impression.

Related Idioms

• Love at first sight: An idiom describing the experience of falling in love immediately upon seeing someone for the first time.
  • Their story is a classic tale of love at first sight.

Adverb

1. immediately
   • it was love at first sight