You may now begin

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "You may now begin" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to give permission or instruction to start something. Example: After reviewing all the rules and guidelines, the teacher announced, "You may now begin the test."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"You may now begin your insane experiment".

The New Yorker

If done correctly, the name of the PC should appear under the name of the group (or in the case of no group: Default) and you may now begin to monitor the PC from your device.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

A lengthy legal battle against extradition may now begin.

The Guardian

But at least the deep sense of pessimism may now begin to lift.

The Economist

The ritual may now begin, backed by the feverish rhythm of the drums, accompanied by cymbals and chanting.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

This may now begin to change, after the culture ministry finally articulated its plans for Perm in a document published on its Web site in October.

The New York Times - Arts

This may now begin to change, as the culture ministry finally articulated its plans for the city on its Web site in October.

The New York Times - Arts

Indeed, the markets may now begin to act as a stronger catalyst for change than the single currency managed to be on its own.

The Economist

Although his analysis applies to luxurious items such as designer handbags, similar behaviour may now begin to affect the grocery till.

The Economist

We may now begin to understand an artist who, like a fugitive throwing dust in the eyes of pursuers, took pains not to be understood.

The New Yorker

He added: "It is highly likely that other businesses may now begin to see cheaper versions of their well-known original registered designs coming on to the market".

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "You may now begin" when you want to formally grant permission or signal the start of an event, task, or performance. It's often used in structured settings like exams, ceremonies, or experiments.

Common error

Avoid using "You may now begin" in casual conversations. Opt for simpler phrases like "You can start now" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "You may now begin" functions as a declarative utterance that performs the act of granting permission or authorizing the start of an activity. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "You may now begin" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase to formally initiate an action or event. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use across diverse sources, including news outlets, wikis, and formal business communications. While suitable for structured and formal settings, it's advisable to use more casual alternatives like "you can start now" in informal conversations. Remember to consider the context and audience when choosing this phrase to maintain the appropriate tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

You can start now

Offers a more direct and informal way to permit the beginning of an activity.

Proceed when ready

Gives the person the autonomy to begin when they are prepared.

Start whenever you're ready

Provides flexibility and allows the individual to initiate the action at their convenience.

Begin at your leisure

Suggests a relaxed and unhurried start to an activity.

You're clear to begin

Implies that any prior obstacles have been removed, and commencement is authorized.

It's time to start

Indicates that the appropriate moment to begin has arrived.

The floor is yours to start

Indicates that someone is being given the opportunity to speak or present.

Let the games begin

A more dramatic or playful way to announce the start of a competition or challenge.

Get underway

Suggests the beginning of a journey or project.

Commence forthwith

A highly formal and somewhat archaic way to instruct immediate commencement.

FAQs

How can I use "You may now begin" in a sentence?

This phrase is typically used to formally signal the start of an event or activity. For example, "Contestants, you may now begin the competition" or "The presentation is ready, you may now begin".

What phrases are similar to "You may now begin"?

Alternatives include "you can start now", "you may proceed", or "begin when ready".

Is "You may now begin" formal or informal?

The phrase is generally considered formal. It's best suited for structured settings and official announcements rather than casual conversations.

Can I use "You may now begin" in a question?

No, "You may now begin" is a statement, not a question. It's used to give permission or instruction to start something.