At first blush, the spelling of this phrase may seem straightforward. However, upon closer inspection, it can be challenging to accurately spell out loud. The phrase "first blush" is pronounced as /fərst blʌʃ/ in phonetic transcription. The "f" sound is followed by the short "u" sound in "first," which is then blended with the "b" sound in "blush." The stress is on the first syllable, evidenced by the schwa sound. Despite its tricky spelling, "first blush" remains a popular and useful phrase in everyday language.
First blush refers to the initial appearance or impression of something, typically encountered at the beginning or first encounter. It is a phrase often used to describe how something or someone appears or presents itself at first glance or upon initial observation.
In a literal sense, first blush can describe the first light of dawn or sunrise, when the sun first peeks over the horizon, bringing the world into daylight. This moment represents the beginning or the first instance of something happening. Metaphorically, the term also carries this connotation of a new beginning, such as the dawn of a new idea, relationship, or situation.
The phrase can also connote the freshness and immediacy of an initial moment or experience, emphasizing the genuine and unfiltered nature of this encounter. It often suggests that subsequent knowledge or understanding may alter or deepen one's perception, as it is based solely on the first impression. This phrase is commonly used to caution against jumping to conclusions or forming definitive judgments solely based on initial appearances, as subsequent information may provide a more comprehensive or accurate understanding.
Overall, first blush refers to the initial appearance or impression of something, often carrying connotations of a new beginning, freshness, and the need for further investigation or assessment.
The term "first blush" originates from the combination of two words: "first" and "blush".
The word "first" can be traced back to the Old English word "fyrst", which ultimately comes from the Proto-Germanic word "*fristaz". It denotes something that is preceding all others in time or order.
The word "blush" has a slightly different origin. It derives from the Middle English word "blusshen" or "blushen", which can be traced back to the Old English word "blyscan", meaning "to redden or become red". It has connections to the Old Norse word "bluskra", which means "to blush" or "to turn red".
When combined, "first blush" generally refers to the initial appearance or impression of something.