I begin with

USAGE SUMMARY

"I begin with" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to introduce something that is the first in a list of items, to start a story or argument, or to begin a process or activity. For example: "I begin with the most important point: safety is our top priority."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

I begin with the Mary Argument.

The New York Times

I begin with the law.

Harvard University

I begin with the basics.

The New York Times - Travel

I begin with an inkling of something on paper.

The New Yorker

I begin with the question, "if we did single species management well, would EBFM be necessary".

Fisheries Research

I begin with some overall observations and conclusions.

Stanford University

Where do I begin with Poor Randall's Almanac?

Princeton University

I guess it's appropriate that I begin with — good afternoon!

Harvard University

"I begin with nothing, or next to nothing.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

To remedy that, I begin with a dough that is based on French sable.

The New York Times - Food

I begin with colors and prints and then move on to fabrics.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I begin with", ensure that the following statement directly introduces the first element or idea you intend to discuss.

Common error

Avoid using "I begin with" in the middle of a paragraph when you're not actually starting a new section or introducing a first point. This can disrupt the flow and confuse the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I begin with" functions as an introductory device. It sets the stage for the subsequent content by signaling that what follows is the initial element or aspect to be discussed. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Academia

37%

Science

13%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I begin with" is a grammatically correct and commonly used introductory phrase. Ludwig AI affirms its usability for initiating discussions and providing structure. It's most frequently found in "News & Media", "Academia", and "Science", contexts, suggesting a neutral to formal register. While "I start with" offers a more casual alternative, "I begin with" signals a structured approach and is useful for clearly marking the commencement of a new topic or series of points. Remember to use it at the true beginning of a section, argument, or list to avoid disrupting the flow of your writing. Alternatives such as "let me start by saying" or "first and foremost" can be employed for variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Let me start by saying

Emphasizes the speaker's intention to initiate a discussion with a particular statement.

First and foremost

Highlights the primary importance of the initial point.

To start things off

Indicates the commencement of a series of actions or points.

Initially, I would like to

Formally introduces the first action or point to be addressed.

My initial point is

Directly states that the following information is the first point.

To begin, let's consider

Suggests that the following topic should be examined first.

As a starting point

Introduces a foundation or basis for further discussion.

The first thing to note is

Highlights the initial observation that needs to be made.

Firstly

A simple and direct way to indicate the first point.

At the outset

Indicates something presented at the very beginning.

FAQs

How can I use "I begin with" in a sentence?

Use "I begin with" to introduce the first point, step, or item in a series. For example, "I begin with a brief overview of the topic before delving into the details."

What are some alternatives to "I begin with"?

You can use alternatives like "let me start by saying", "first and foremost", or "to start things off" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "I begin with"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. "I begin with" is a common and accepted way to introduce the first element in a discussion or series.

What's the difference between "I begin with" and "I start with"?

While both phrases are similar, "I begin with" is slightly more formal. "I start with" is often used in more casual settings, while "I begin with" may be preferred in academic or professional contexts.