First come, first served
adjective
The rule that the people who arrive or take action earliest also get served earliest.
Seats to the concert are on a first come, first served basis.
Often appears as...
- tickets will be first come
- first served; we operate on a first come
interjection
Used to indicate that people will be dealt with strictly in the order in which they arrive or apply.
Please form a line for the food, it's first come, first served.
Often appears as...
- it's a first come
- first served basis; this is first come
Usage tips
Colloquial
adjective
The rule that the people who arrive or take action earliest also get served earliest.
Seats to the concert are on a first come, first served basis.
Often appears as...
- tickets will be first come
- first served; we operate on a first come
interjection
Used to indicate that people will be dealt with strictly in the order in which they arrive or apply.
Please form a line for the food, it's first come, first served.
Often appears as...
- it's a first come
- first served basis; this is first come
Usage tips
Colloquial
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Policy Explanation
Explain a policy where there's no reservation and service is based on arrival order.
The bakery operates on a first come, first served basis, so arrive early for the best selection.
Pro Tip 2/3No Guarantees
Stress there's no guarantee of availability, suggesting urgency and promptness.
Camping spots are first come, first served, so they might run out quickly during holidays.
Pro Tip 3/3Fairness
Indicates a fair process as everyone has an equal chance if they arrive early.
For the sale, it's first come, first served to give everyone a fair shot at the deals.
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