Looking up...
be the first to condemn
/bi ðə fɜːrst tu kənˈdɛm/
criticize someone or something publicly before others
She was always the first to condemn any form of injustice.
She publicly criticized injustice before others had a chance to speak.
formal
To publicly criticize or express strong disapproval of someone or something before others do.
The politician was the first to condemn the controversial policy.
The politician publicly criticized the policy before others had a chance to respond.
As a journalist, she often was the first to condemn corruption in high places.
She frequently publicly criticized corruption before others in the media did.
This phrase emphasizes being the first to express disapproval, often implying moral or ethical leadership.
Collocations
be the first to condemn publiclyto criticize openly before othersbe the first to condemn stronglyto express strong disapproval before others
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Formal Context
This phrase is often used in formal or political contexts to emphasize moral or ethical leadership.
Gold Rule
Emphasis on Timing
The phrase emphasizes being the first to express disapproval, often implying moral or ethical leadership.
Word Origin
The phrase combines the verb 'condemn' (from Latin 'condemnare', meaning to declare guilty) with the idea of being the first to do so, emphasizing leadership in moral or ethical judgment.
Usage Notes
This phrase is often used in formal or political contexts to highlight someone's willingness to take a stand on an issue before others do. It can also imply moral courage or leadership.
Word Breakdown
be
to exist or occur
verbthe first
the earliest or earliest in time
determinerto condemn
to express strong disapproval of
verbEnglish Dictionary