I started reading

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I started reading" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that you began the activity of reading something, such as a book, article, or document. Example: "I started reading the new novel last night and couldn't put it down."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

I started reading.

Independent

"I started reading through Scripture.

The New Yorker

So I started reading.

The Guardian - Film

So I started reading the Koran".

The New York Times - Magazine

I started reading and couldn't stop.

The New Yorker

I started reading about their projects.

The New York Times

"So I started reading the original texts".

The New Yorker

So I started reading everything.

The Guardian - Books

"I started reading your books.

The New Yorker

I think that's why I started reading.

The New York Times - Magazine

Then I started reading the book.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I started reading", be specific about what you began reading to provide context. For example, "I started reading 'War and Peace'" is more informative than simply "I started reading".

Common error

Ensure the context makes it clear what prompted you to start reading. Avoid starting sentences with "I started reading" without establishing a reason or prior context, as it can leave the reader wondering why you began reading in the first place.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "I started reading" is to indicate the initiation of an action. It serves as a statement expressing that the speaker commenced the activity of reading. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I started reading" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to indicate the commencement of the act of reading. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common presence in diverse contexts. While generally neutral in register, it is most commonly found in news and media. For more formal situations, consider alternatives such as "I began to read". To enhance clarity, specify the object of reading immediately following the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I began to read

A more formal synonym, emphasizing the beginning of the reading action.

I commenced reading

A highly formal alternative to "I started reading", suitable for academic or legal contexts.

I took up reading

Suggests a more sustained or habitual engagement with reading.

I got into reading

Implies enthusiasm and immersion in the activity of reading.

I initiated reading

Similar to 'began', but suggests a more deliberate and intentional start.

I set about reading

Implies approaching the task of reading with a sense of purpose or determination.

I turned to reading

Suggests reading as a recourse or a newly adopted activity.

I devoted myself to reading

Emphasizes a significant commitment of time and energy to reading.

I dived into reading

Emphasizes the suddenness and intensity with which the person starts reading.

I embarked on reading

Suggests a journey or exploration through the act of reading.

FAQs

What's a more formal way to say "I started reading"?

For a more formal tone, you can use alternatives such as "I began to read" or "I commenced reading".

Is it okay to use "I started reading" in academic writing?

While grammatically correct, "I started reading" might be considered informal for some academic contexts. Consider using more formal alternatives like "I began to examine" or "I initiated a study of" depending on the context.

What can I say instead of "I started reading" to emphasize enthusiasm?

To express enthusiasm, you could say "I got into reading", which suggests a deeper engagement and enjoyment of the activity.

How can I make the sentence "I started reading" more specific?

Add details about what you started reading. For example, "I started reading /s/the+article the article" or "I started reading /s/the+assigned+chapter the assigned chapter" provides more context.