At first glance
Example: At first glance, the picture looks very colorful and bright.
Definition
"At first glance" is an expression used to describe an initial impression or observation made quickly, without detailed examination. It implies that the first look may not reveal the full or accurate nature of something, as in: At first glance, the picture looks very colorful and bright.
Etymology
The phrase "at first glance" combines 'first,' meaning initial or earliest, and 'glance,' meaning a quick or brief look. It originates from the natural human tendency to form immediate impressions based on a rapid visual survey. Did you know? The word 'glance' comes from the Old French 'glancer,' meaning to strike or glance off, highlighting the fleeting nature of such an observation.
Learn to use this expression actively
"At first glance" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - General - Idioms and Proverbs - (B1) - set 1", containing 123 commonly used expressions.
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