I started to take

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I started to take" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing the beginning of an action or process that involves taking something, such as a course, medication, or responsibility. Example: "I started to take a new approach to my studies after realizing my previous methods weren't effective."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

I started to take off my shoes.

The New Yorker

So I started to take the anti-depressant.

The New York Times

I started to take note of the story itself.

The New Yorker

We phoned the police before I started to take pictures.

The Guardian

I had so much anger in me, I started to take it out on people.

The New York Times

So that's when I started to take to Twitter and Instagram and Facebook to amplify.

The Guardian - Opinion

When I started to take photographs they were all ghastly, except by accident.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

I start to take slow sips, as if it might burn holes in my esophagus.

The New York Times - Arts

Once I have paid, I start to take off the packaging.

The Guardian

And I just started to take pictures".

The New Yorker

Staying in character as a budding acting hopeful, I've started to take the opportunity seriously.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I started to take" when you want to clearly indicate the beginning of an action, especially one that involves a deliberate decision or process. For example: "I started to take piano lessons after being inspired by a concert."

Common error

While "I started to take" is perfectly acceptable, avoid using it excessively in formal contexts. Instead, consider more sophisticated alternatives such as "I initiated" or "I commenced" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I started to take" serves as a verbal phrase indicating the initiation of an action or process. It highlights the beginning of an activity, such as taking medication, a course, or responsibility. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its wide applicability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Science

8%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I started to take" is a grammatically correct and very commonly used phrase to indicate the beginning of an action. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is widely accepted and usable in various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While versatile, it's important to consider formality and choose appropriate alternatives like "I began to take" for more professional settings. The phrase is generally used to inform an audience about the commencement of a new activity or behavior. Keep in mind, there's a chance to overuse it in writing, and this should be avoided.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I proceeded to take

Uses "proceeded" instead of "started", implying a sequential action.

I began to undertake

Replaces "started" with "began" and "take" with the more formal "undertake".

I set about taking

Replaces "started to take" with "set about taking", suggesting a deliberate beginning.

I embarked on taking

Replaces "started to take" with "embarked on taking", suggesting a new journey or adventure.

I commenced to engage in

Substitutes "started" with "commenced" and "take" with "engage in", increasing formality.

I turned to taking

Uses "turned" instead of "started", suggesting a change in direction.

I initiated the process of taking

Replaces "started to take" with "initiated the process of taking", adding emphasis.

I launched into taking

Substitutes "started" with "launched", suggesting a more vigorous start.

I got underway with taking

Uses idiomatic expression "got underway" instead of "started", implying an action that has begun.

I ventured into taking

Substitutes "started" with "ventured", implying a degree of risk or uncertainty.

FAQs

How can I use "I started to take" in a sentence?

Use "I started to take" to describe the beginning of an action or process you initiated. For example, "I started to take a new approach to project management."

What are some alternatives to "I started to take"?

You can use phrases like "I began to take", "I commenced to take", or "I initiated" depending on the level of formality you need.

Is it correct to say "I started taking" instead of "I started to take"?

Yes, both are grammatically correct. "I started taking" is often considered more concise and natural in everyday speech, while "I started to take" can sometimes add a slight emphasis on the decision or intention.

When is it best to use "I began to take" instead of "I started to take"?

"I began to take" is generally more formal than "I started to take" and may be more suitable for academic or professional writing. It implies a more deliberate or significant commencement.