begin, commence, start, initiate, inaugurate, usher in mean to take the first step in a course, process, or operation. begin, start, and commence are often interchangeable.

Grammar Begin or start? We can use the verbs begin and start to mean the same thing but begin is more formal than start. Begin is an irregular verb. Its past simple form is began and its -ed …

If you say that you cannot begin to imagine, understand, or explain something, you are emphasizing that it is almost impossible to explain, understand, or imagine.

start – begin 1. used with noun phrases If you start or begin something, you do it from a particular time. There is no difference in meaning. My father started work when he was fourteen. We'll …

Begin, commence, initiate, start (when followed by noun or gerund) refer to setting into motion or progress something that continues for some time. Begin is the common term: to begin knitting …

Definition of begin verb in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Oct 13, 2025 · begin (third-person singular simple present begins, present participle beginning, simple past began, past participle begun) (ergative) To start, to initiate or take the first step …

When you begin something, you go ahead with its first part or stage — you can begin the day with a good attitude, or begin a very long book over and over again, always falling asleep before …

Some common synonyms of begin are commence, inaugurate, initiate, start, and usher in. While all these words mean "to take the first step in a course, process, or operation," begin, start, …

To begin with, we can't leave the children alone. (Definition of begin from the Cambridge Learner's Dictionary © Cambridge University Press)