I commenced learning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I commenced learning" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating the beginning of the process of acquiring knowledge or skills in a particular subject or area. Example: "After years of working in finance, I commenced learning about data science to enhance my career prospects."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

World War I commenced and stretched out agonizingly.

The New York Times - Arts

As a lifelong student of languages, I very painfully experienced the decay of the ability to learn another language in old age, beginning at 50, when I commenced to add a Slavonic language, tcheque, to my repertoire.

Princeton University

It's like deciding to lose half a stone by swimsuit season and becoming so demented in that quest that you join Israeli special forces and commence learning how to crush a man to death with the power of your thighs.

The Times

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

I commenced to walk backward...

Huffington Post

That's not all I commenced adding up.

Huffington Post

I met a new circle of friends, and I commenced with my fast-paced lifestyle.

Huffington Post

This was nine parts SKYY and one part Mr. & Mrs. T. I commenced to sipping.

Huffington Post

On October 16, I commenced a journey from Seattle to Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula.

HuffPost

An hour before the panel commenced, we learned the communications director for climate curmudgeons, Senator James Inhofe (Republican, Oklahoma) had elbowed his way onto the rostrum.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I commenced learning" when you want to convey a slightly more formal or deliberate tone than "I started learning". It's suitable for written reports, formal presentations, or when emphasizing the significance of beginning a new learning endeavor.

Common error

Avoid using "I commenced learning" in casual conversations or informal writing. It can sound stilted or pretentious in contexts where a more relaxed tone is appropriate. Opt for simpler alternatives like "I started learning" in such situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I commenced learning" functions as a statement of action, specifically indicating the initiation of a learning process. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is usable in written English. Examples show it used when describing the beginning of acquiring knowledge or skills.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I commenced learning" is a grammatically correct way to express the beginning of a learning process. However, it carries a more formal tone compared to alternatives like "I started learning" or "I began learning". As Ludwig AI states, it’s suitable for written English and contexts where a deliberate or significant tone is desired. While not frequently used, its appropriateness hinges on the context, with formal settings favoring its use. It's recommended to consider the audience and purpose of your writing to determine if the slightly elevated register of "commenced" is fitting.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I started learning

Direct and common alternative, replacing "commenced" with a more everyday term.

I began learning

Similar to "started learning", but carries a slightly more formal tone.

I initiated learning

More formal than "started" or "began", emphasizing the act of setting something in motion.

I undertook learning

Implies a more significant or deliberate engagement in the learning process.

I set about learning

Suggests a focused and intentional approach to learning.

I embarked on learning

Emphasizes the journey or process aspect of learning.

I took up learning

Implies starting learning as a new activity or hobby.

I dived into learning

Informal and emphasizes enthusiasm and immersion in the learning process.

I got into learning

Informal and conveys a sense of becoming interested and involved in learning.

I took to learning

Suggests developing a liking or aptitude for learning.

FAQs

What is a more common way to say "I commenced learning"?

A more common alternative is "I started learning", which is suitable for most everyday contexts.

When is it appropriate to use "I commenced learning"?

Use "I commenced learning" when you want to sound more formal or emphasize the deliberate nature of beginning a learning process. It's appropriate for formal writing and professional settings.

What's the difference between "I commenced learning" and "I began learning"?

The difference is subtle, but "commenced" is often perceived as slightly more formal than "began". Both are suitable for similar contexts, but "commenced" may add a touch more emphasis to the initiation.

Can I use "I commenced learning" in spoken English?

While grammatically correct, "I commenced learning" is less common in spoken English. Alternatives like "I started learning" or "I began learning" are generally preferred for a more natural sound.