Language of the Day: First Come, First Served
Today we’ll learn how to use the phrase, “first come, first served” which is used to describe situations where you can’t make a reservation or register for something in advance.
Often, when we see a line up of people outside of a restaurant, it’s because the restaurant doesn’t take reservations and tables are available on a first come, first served basis.
The first come, first served policy is also used at places like parking lots and for concerts and events that don’t offer advance seating or tickets with seat numbers, for example.
At MOSAIC engage, we have a free conversation class every Wednesday from 5:00 to 6:00 PM. Unlike our regular classes, the free conversation class is first come, first served. This means that students can’t register or sign up in advance, and whoever arrives first gets preference.
Let’s look at some more example sentences below!
“I heard that they will be giving out free flags at the Canada Day event, but it’s first come, first served so hopefully they don’t run out by the time we get there.”
“We called the walk-in clinic to book an appointment, but the receptionist said that appointments are available at a first come, first served basis.”
“There is visitor parking available at my apartment but it usually fills up on the weekends. It’s first come, first served so if you get here early you’re more likely to get a spot.”
“Unfortunately that new Italian restaurant doesn’t take reservations. It’s first come, first served so make sure to wear comfortable shoes because we might be standing for a while!”