I commenced

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I commenced" is a perfectly valid and usable sentence in written English.
You could use the phrase to describe the beginning of an action, such as in the sentence: "I commenced playing the piano when I was five years old."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

World War I commenced and stretched out agonizingly.

The New York Times - Arts

However, when World War I commenced, sugar shortages dealt a blow to his fledgling business.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

I commenced to perambulate away, but I felt so awful.

The New Yorker

No sooner had I commenced than all of them, poor overworked fellows, sleepwalked out of earshot.

The New York Times - Books

But this could not last long, and soon I commenced to look around for something to do.

The New Yorker

When I commenced my doctorate at Cambridge there was the promise of an unconditional two-year work visa after graduation.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

(B) Is commenced within a 2-year period beginning on the date of the declaration.

Cornell University

Thanks St Jerorme's Laneway It's been a blast.

Vice

And now I commence my reading of Haruki Murakami, not with "The Wind-Up Bird ChroNorwegian "NorWoodan Wood" but with this little book about running.

The New York Times - Books

Hence I am going to share with you all a few words of encouragement before I commence a new stage in my life, which is not more distant from the Society, its mission, you all, or the desire we share to properly serve the sick.

Columbia University

How do I commence a job search, especially if it has been many years since I last conducted one? 2. What are some modern job search strategies that I should be aware of and employ?

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I commenced" in formal writing or when aiming for a slightly elevated tone. In casual contexts, consider using "I began" or "I started" for a more natural feel.

Common error

Avoid using "I commenced" in informal conversations or casual writing, as it can sound overly formal or stilted. Opt for more common alternatives like "I started" or "I began" in such contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I commenced" functions as the main clause subject and verb, indicating the speaker or writer initiated an action. Ludwig examples show it introduces a description of activities from diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I commenced" is a grammatically correct and relatively common way to indicate the start of an action, as confirmed by Ludwig. While suitable for formal writing and professional contexts, it can sound overly stilted in casual conversation. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use across various domains, from news articles to academic papers. When choosing to use "I commenced", consider the desired tone and audience. Alternatives like "I began" or "I started" may be more appropriate in informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I began

A simpler and more common synonym for "I commenced".

I started

Another frequently used and less formal alternative to "I commenced".

I initiated

Similar to "I commenced", but often implies a more formal or official start.

I undertook

Suggests a more serious or significant undertaking than "I commenced".

I launched

Often used when referring to the start of a project or initiative.

I inaugurated

Implies a formal or ceremonial beginning.

I set about

Indicates starting a task or activity with a specific goal in mind.

I proceeded

Suggests a continuation from a previous step or action after "I commenced".

I got underway

An idiomatic expression that means "I commenced", often used for journeys or projects.

I took up

Implies starting something new as a hobby or interest after "I commenced".

FAQs

What is a more common alternative to "I commenced"?

Common alternatives include "I began" and "I started". These are generally more appropriate for informal settings.

When is it appropriate to use "I commenced"?

"I commenced" is best suited for formal writing, reports, or situations where a slightly elevated tone is desired. It signals a deliberate and official start to something.

Is "I commenced" interchangeable with "I began"?

While similar, "I commenced" carries a slightly more formal connotation than "I began". The choice depends on the desired tone and context.

How to avoid sounding too formal when using "I commenced"?

If the surrounding text is casual, consider using a more relaxed alternative. If formality is necessary, ensure the rest of the writing maintains a similar tone.