1.
first-come, first-served; order of arrival
A system where people who arrive or apply first are given priority.
先着順 means places are given out in order of arrival or application, until they run out. It is one of the two standard ways Japanese notices ration something limited.
Usage
- The method takes で: 先着順で販売 (sold first-come, first-served)
- 先着 without 順 heads a number: 先着100名 (the first 100 people)
- Shop and event notices often add 様 for politeness: 先着50名様限定
Similar words
抽選 (lottery) is the alternative, and which one applies decides how you should behave: 先着順 rewards arriving or applying early, 抽選 makes speed irrelevant. 予約制 (by reservation) is a third arrangement, where a booking rather than a queue secures the place.