BEGIN and START can be used interchangeably, but there is a little difference between “to begin“ and “to start”. Did you know that?
Usage
- We can use the verbs “begin” or “start” to mean the same thing but “begin” is more formal than “start”.
When did you begin learning English?
The meeting didn’t start until 9 p.m
- We use “start” for machines and making something start.
I started the washing machine an hour ago
Not: I began the washing machine an hour ago.
My car won’t start!
Not: My car won’t begin.
- “Start”, but not “begin”, is used to talk about creating a new business
She started a new restaurant and it’s been going really well.
Not: She began a new restaurant…
Synonyms
Other verbs that have similar meaning to “begin” and “start” are: “commence”, “initiate”
- “Commence” usually stresses the beginning of a formal event.
The president commenced the ceremony.
- “Initiate” is used to describe the first steps in a process.
Who initiates the violence?
Now it is your turn to make 2 sentences using “begin” and “start”. And don’t forget to share with us by commenting below.
