Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
first-reading
noun
/ˈfɜrst ˈrɪdɪŋ/

Definition
The initial presentation of a proposed legislation in a legislative body, where its general principles are debated.

Examples
- The first-reading of the new environmental bill took place yesterday.
- During the first-reading, lawmakers expressed general support for the proposal.
- After the first-reading, the bill was assigned to a committee for further discussion.

Meaning
First-reading refers to the stage in the legislative process where a bill is introduced to the members of a legislative body for the first time. During this stage, there is usually no debate on the bill’s merits; instead, its title and main objectives are presented.

Synonyms
- initial presentation
- introduction
- preliminary review