Commence construction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Commence construction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are indicating the start of a building or infrastructure project. Example: "We are pleased to announce that we will commence construction on the new community center next month."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

"The plan is to commence construction as the wet season draws to an end".

The Guardian

Normally, this would not be looked on as the most opportune moment to commence construction of millions of square feet of new downtown office space.

The New York Times

As this definition is essentially identical to the definition of "commence construction" as that term is used in the PSD regulations, the two terms mean the same thing.

Cornell University

The University hopes to commence construction on the Science and Engineering Complex next summer, with an anticipated building opening in 2020.

Harvard University

"The vast majority of the 475,647 homes quoted by the LGA are either on sites where work has already started, or where there is not a fully 'implementable' permission and where it is not legal for builders to commence construction.

The Guardian

The Attorney General, acting under the authority conferred in section 103(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act [8 U.S.C. 1103(b)] (as inserted by subsection (d)), shall promptly acquire such easements as may be necessary to carry out this subsection and shall commence construction of fences immediately following such acquisition (or conclusion of portions thereof).

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

"There are only a dozen that are actively preselling that haven't commenced construction.

The New York Times

In 1853 the Episcopalians in Havana commenced construction of a church which was consecrated in 1871.

Cornell University

Columbia University commenced construction on the Manhattanville site in September 2008, and work has been ongoing since then.

Columbia University

In February, Tubas commenced construction on a wastewater treatment plant to provide treated water for agricultural use, but it will not be finished until September 2017.

The Guardian

Those that have commenced construction have run over time and over budget, exactly as happened in the last big nuclear boom of the 1970s.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "commence construction" in formal reports, contracts, or announcements where a professional tone is desired.

Common error

Avoid using "commence construction" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "start building" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "commence construction" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the beginning of a building or infrastructure project. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Academia

33%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "commence construction" is a formal way to indicate the start of a building or infrastructure project. As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Its usage is most common in news and media, academic, and scientific contexts. While grammatically sound, it's important to consider the audience and context, opting for simpler alternatives like "start building" in informal situations. Remember to use "commence construction" where a professional tone is desired, especially in official reports and announcements.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Begin building

Emphasizes the physical act of building rather than the formal start of a project.

Start construction

A more common and straightforward alternative to "commence construction".

Initiate building

Similar in meaning but slightly less formal than "commence construction".

Undertake construction

Highlights the undertaking or commitment to the construction process.

Embark on construction

Implies a new venture or significant undertaking in building.

Break ground

An idiomatic expression referring to the start of construction, often ceremonially.

Set in motion construction

Focuses on initiating or activating the construction process.

Get the ball rolling on construction

An informal expression meaning to start or initiate the construction process.

Kick off construction

A casual way to say begin construction.

Start to build

A simple and direct alternative, focusing on the act of building.

FAQs

What does "commence construction" mean?

The phrase "commence construction" means to begin or start the process of building or constructing something. It's often used in formal contexts.

When is it appropriate to use "commence construction"?

It is appropriate to use "commence construction" in formal documents, reports, or official announcements related to building or infrastructure projects. In casual conversation, simpler terms like "start building" may be more suitable.

What are some alternatives to "commence construction"?

You can use alternatives like "start construction", "begin building", or "initiate building" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "commence construction" and "start construction"?

While both phrases have the same core meaning, "commence construction" is generally considered more formal than "start construction". The choice depends on the desired tone and audience.