Definition

1. Noun:
   • The initial stage in accomplishing something: The first step or phase in a process or endeavor.
   • The fielding position of the player stationed near first base: The defensive position in baseball played by the first baseman.
   • The first of the four bases that must be touched by a runner: The base located to the right of home plate in a counterclockwise direction, which a batter must reach safely to begin a potential run.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Initial Stage):
  • Our proposal was rejected; we couldn't even get to first base with the committee.
  • Without proper funding, the project will never get past first base.
• Noun (Fielding Position):
  • She plays first base for her college team.
  • The coach assigned the tallest player to first base.
• Noun (The Base Itself):
  • The runner slid safely into first base.
  • The ball was thrown to first base for the out.

Advanced Usage

• "to get to first base (with something)": To achieve the first step or make initial progress in a plan, project, or relationship.
  • We need to get our idea to first base with management before we can proceed.
• "to not get to first base": To fail to make any initial progress.
  • His argument was so weak it didn't get to first base.

Variants and Related Words

• First baseman (n): The player whose fielding position is at first base.
  • The first baseman caught the line drive for the final out.
• First (adj): Coming before all others in time, order, or importance.
  • This is my first time visiting the stadium.

Synonyms

• Starting point: The place or time at which something begins.
• Outset: The beginning or start of something.
• Initial step: The first action in a series.

Related Phrases

• "Cover first base": In baseball, for a fielder to move to and protect first base.
  • The pitcher had to cover first base on the ground ball.
• "Hold the runner on first": In baseball, for the first baseman to stand close to the base to prevent a runner from taking a large lead.
  • The catcher called for the pitcher to hold the runner on first.

Related Idioms

• "Can't get to first base": To be completely unsuccessful in making any initial progress.
  • I've tried talking to her several times, but I can't get to first base.

Noun

1. the initial stage in accomplishing something
   • we didn't get to first base with that approach
2. the fielding position of the player on a baseball team who is stationed at first of the bases in the infield (counting counterclockwise from home plate)
3. the base that must be touched first by a base runner in baseball