Are you confused about when to use “started” and “began”? These two words are often used interchangeably, but there are some key differences that you need to know. In this article, we’ll explore the nuances of each word and provide you with a clear understanding of when to use each one.
Let’s define our terms. “Started” and “began” both refer to the beginning of an action or process. However, “started” is the more general term and can be used in a wider range of contexts. It simply means that something has begun, without specifying any details about how or when it happened. On the other hand, “began” is more specific and implies that there was a clear starting point or moment in time.
Now that we’ve established the basic definitions, let’s dive deeper into the nuances of each word.
Define Started
Started is a verb that refers to the beginning of an action or process. It implies that something has been initiated or commenced. This term is often used to describe the initial stages of a project, task, or event. For example, “I started working on the project yesterday.”
Define Began
Began is also a verb that refers to the start of an action or process. It is often used interchangeably with started, but there are subtle differences in their usage. Began is typically used when referring to the specific moment in time when something started. For example, “I began working on the project at 9 AM.”
It is worth noting that began is the past tense form of begin, while started is the past tense form of start. However, in most cases, these two terms can be used interchangeably without affecting the meaning of the sentence.
How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence
Using the right words in a sentence is crucial to effective communication. Misusing words can lead to confusion and misunderstanding. In this section, we will discuss the proper use of the words “started” and “began.”
How To Use “Started” In A Sentence
The word “started” is a past tense verb that means to begin or initiate something. It is often used to describe the beginning of an action or event. Here are some examples of how to use “started” in a sentence:
- I started my new job last week.
- She started her own business after years of working for others.
- They started the project with a brainstorming session.
It is important to note that “started” should be used in the past tense, and is often paired with an object or action. For example, “I started the car” or “She started the meeting.”
How To Use “Began” In A Sentence
The word “began” is also a past tense verb that means to start or initiate something. It is often used interchangeably with “started,” but there are some subtle differences in usage. Here are some examples of how to use “began” in a sentence:
- He began to feel sick after eating the sushi.
- They began the concert with their most popular song.
- She began to learn French when she was in high school.
Like “started,” “began” should be used in the past tense and is often paired with an object or action. However, “began” is sometimes used to describe the start of a process or state, rather than a specific action. For example, “The leaves began to change color in the fall.”
It is important to note that “began” is sometimes considered more formal than “started,” and may be preferred in academic or professional writing.
More Examples Of Started & Began Used In Sentences
Understanding the difference between “started” and “began” can be challenging, but with more examples, it becomes easier to differentiate the two. Here are some examples of using “started” in a sentence:
- She started her own business last year.
- He started to feel sick after eating the seafood.
- The concert started at 8 pm sharp.
- She started to cry when she heard the news.
- He started to work on the project early in the morning.
- The car started to make a strange noise.
- She started to learn how to play the guitar when she was 10.
- He started to write a novel but never finished it.
- The engine started after a few tries.
- She started to feel better after taking the medicine.
On the other hand, here are some examples of using “began” in a sentence:
- The movie began at 7 pm.
- He began to study for the exam a week in advance.
- She began to paint the picture in the morning.
- The storm began to pick up speed as it approached the coast.
- He began to feel nervous before his presentation.
- The teacher began to explain the lesson to the students.
- She began to feel more confident after practicing.
- He began to run faster to catch up with the others.
- The sun began to set over the horizon.
- She began to sing the song with a beautiful voice.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
When it comes to using “started” and “began,” many people mistakenly believe that they are interchangeable. However, this is not the case, and using them incorrectly can lead to confusion and misunderstandings. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
Using “Began” When “Started” Is The Correct Choice
One common mistake is using “began” when “started” is the correct choice. For example, saying “I began to eat my breakfast” instead of “I started to eat my breakfast.” The word “began” implies a more gradual or prolonged action, whereas “started” indicates a sudden or immediate action. In most cases, “started” is the more appropriate choice.
Using “Started” When “Initiated” Or “Commenced” Is More Precise
Another mistake is using “started” when a more precise word like “initiated” or “commenced” would be more appropriate. For example, saying “I started the project” instead of “I initiated the project.” While “started” can be used in this context, using a more specific word can make your writing more clear and concise.
Using “Started” Or “Began” Unnecessarily
Sometimes, people use “started” or “began” unnecessarily, which can make their writing sound repetitive or awkward. For example, saying “I started to think about my vacation. Then, I began to plan my itinerary” could be simplified to “I thought about my vacation and planned my itinerary.” Avoid using these words unless they add clarity or emphasis to your writing.
Tips To Avoid These Mistakes
- Read your writing carefully and consider whether “started” or “began” is the best choice in each context.
- Use a thesaurus to find more precise words when “started” or “began” feels too general.
- Practice writing without using these words to develop a more varied and nuanced writing style.
Context Matters
When it comes to choosing between “started” and “began,” context is key. Both words indicate the beginning of an action or process, but the choice between them can depend on the specific context in which they are used.
Examples Of Different Contexts
Here are some examples of different contexts and how the choice between “started” and “began” might change:
| Context | Example | Correct Word Choice |
|---|---|---|
| Informal Conversation | “I _____ to learn Spanish last year.” | Started |
| Formal Writing | “The project _____ with a thorough analysis of the data.” | Began |
| Physical Action | “She _____ to run towards the finish line.” | Started |
| Mental Action | “He _____ to understand the complex problem.” | Began |
As you can see, the choice between “started” and “began” can depend on factors such as the formality of the context, whether the action is physical or mental, and the specific wording of the sentence.
It’s important to consider the context carefully when choosing between these two words to ensure that your writing is clear and accurate.
Exceptions To The Rules
While the rules for using “started” and “began” are generally straightforward, there are a few exceptions to keep in mind. Here are some cases where the rules might not apply:
1. In Certain Idiomatic Expressions
There are some idiomatic expressions where “started” or “began” cannot be interchanged. For example:
- Started from scratch: This means to start something from the very beginning, without any prior preparation or resources. You cannot use “began” in this context.
- Begin with a bang: This means to start something in a dramatic or impressive way. You cannot use “started” in this context.
2. In Certain Verb Tenses
The rules for using “started” and “began” can also change depending on the verb tense being used. For example:
- Past perfect tense: In the past perfect tense, “had started” is used instead of “had begun.” For example: “By the time we arrived, she had already started the project.”
- Present perfect tense: In the present perfect tense, “have begun” is used instead of “have started.” For example: “I have begun to notice a difference in my energy levels.”
3. In Certain Contexts
Finally, there are some contexts where “started” and “began” can be used interchangeably, but the meaning might change slightly. For example:
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Started | Implies a sudden or abrupt beginning |
| Began | Implies a gradual or deliberate beginning |
For example, “She started to cry” implies that the crying began suddenly, while “She began to cry” implies that the crying began more gradually.
Practice Exercises
Improving your understanding and use of started and began can take practice. Here are some exercises to help you:
Exercise 1: Fill In The Blank
Choose the correct word to complete each sentence:
| Sentence | Answer |
|---|---|
| I ________ to feel sick after eating that sandwich. | started |
| She ________ to run after she finished her homework. | began |
| We ________ the movie late because of traffic. | started |
| He ________ to whistle when he heard the song. | began |
Exercise 2: Rewrite The Sentence
Rewrite each sentence using the other word:
- She began to cry when she heard the news.
- We started to plan the party last week.
- He started to feel better after taking the medicine.
- I began to study for the exam early.
Answers:
- She started to cry when she heard the news.
- We began to plan the party last week.
- He began to feel better after taking the medicine.
- I started to study for the exam early.
By completing these exercises, you can improve your understanding and use of started and began in sentences. Keep practicing and soon you’ll be able to use these words with confidence!
Conclusion
After exploring the nuances of “started” vs “began,” it’s clear that these two words are often used interchangeably. However, there are subtle differences that can affect the tone and meaning of a sentence.
One key difference is that “started” is more commonly used in everyday conversation, while “began” is often used in more formal or literary contexts. Additionally, “began” can imply a more deliberate or intentional start, while “started” can suggest a more casual or spontaneous beginning.
It’s important to be aware of these distinctions and to choose the right word for the right situation. By doing so, you can convey your message more effectively and avoid any confusion or ambiguity.
Key Takeaways:
- “Started” and “began” are often used interchangeably, but there are subtle differences in their usage.
- “Started” is more commonly used in everyday conversation, while “began” is often used in more formal or literary contexts.
- “Began” can imply a more deliberate or intentional start, while “started” can suggest a more casual or spontaneous beginning.
- Choosing the right word for the right situation can help you convey your message more effectively and avoid confusion or ambiguity.
Overall, understanding the nuances of grammar and language use can greatly enhance your writing and communication skills. By continuing to learn and improve, you can become a more effective and confident communicator.
Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.