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This is the first/last …, etc

This is the first time, etc​

We use the present perfect in sentences constructed with this/it/that is the first/second/third/only/best/worst, etc.

  • This is the first time that I’ve heard her sing. (not This is the first time that I hear her sing.)
  • This is the first time I’ve seen a volcano. (not This is my first time to see a volcano.)
  • This is the fifth time you’ve asked me the same question (not This is the fifth time you ask …)
  • That’s the third cake you’ve eaten this morning.
  • It’s one of the most interesting books I’ve ever read.
  • I’m flying to New York tomorrow. It’ll be the first time I’ve travelled by plane.

When we talk about the past, we generally use the past perfect in these structures.

  • It was the third time he had been in love that year.

Tenses with This is the last …, etc​

Present (simple or progressive) and future tenses are both possible with This is the last … and similar structures.

  • This is the last time I pay / I’m paying for you. (or This is the last time I’ll pay for you.)
  • That’s the last email he gets / he’s getting from me. (or That’s the last email he’ll get from me.)
  • This is the last thing I’m going to say to you.