first time, beginning
初 centers on the start of something: the first time an event happens, or the beginning of a process.
beginning; outset; first; onset
for the first time
first; new
early days; early years; early stages; initial stages; beginning
beginner
first time; first innings; initial attempt
beginning; start; outset
first generation; founder
first day; opening day
nice to meet you; I'm glad to make your acquaintance; how do you do?
first love; puppy love
first meeting; first interview with
first match (in a series)
beginning (of a century, etc.)
elementary level; beginner level
first appearance
early summer
first performance; premiere
basics; rudiments; elements; ABCs of ...
first shrine visit of the New Year
first edition
beginning of the year
one's original intention; one's initial enthusiasm
first 10 days of the month
初 combines 衤 (clothing) and 刀 (knife). The traditional explanation is that cutting cloth is the first step in making a garment, symbolizing a beginning.
Picture the first cut of a knife into fresh cloth: that initial slice marks the beginning of making a new garment. 初 is that first time.
For ショ, imagine the first cut of the knife making a soft 'sho' sound as it slices the cloth: sho -> ショ, the beginning of the sewing project.