a start like this

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a start like this" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an initial situation or event that is noteworthy or significant in some way. Example: "With a start like this, I knew the project would be a success from the very beginning."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

General Communication

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Who would want a start like this?

The Economist

It's only April -- for those who didn't spend $183 million to see a start like this.

The New York Times - Sports

If we had a start like this in New York, it wouldn't be fun.

The New York Times - Sports

We knew Salah was strong, but a start like this goes beyond anyone's expectations.

The Guardian - Sport

"I never thought that we would get off to a start like this," St. Raymond's Coach Gary DeCesare said.

The New York Times - Sports

"A start like this from us is unacceptable; if we want to fight for big things we must learn the lesson as soon as possible.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

"If I remain it will be a tough season and I don't want to make a start like we did this season, that was too much.

BBC

" 'Spider-Man' will always be an important franchise for Sony Pictures and a fresh start like this is a responsibility that we all take very seriously," Sony Chairman Michael Lynton said in a prepared statement.

Los Angeles Times

"I think it's overdue, a fresh start like this has been needed for a while," said Mendieta.

BBC

Think what Google would have done with a head start like this in the area of AI-driven voice assistants.

Forbes

"It's nice for us to get off to a good start like this in playoffs.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a start like this" to refer to unexpected beginnings, either positive or negative, that deviate from the norm. For example: "I wasn't expecting "a start like this", but I am glad it happened!"

Common error

While appropriate in general communication, avoid "a start like this" in strictly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and professional language, such as "initial stage" or "commencement phase".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a start like this" functions as a noun phrase, often used as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig examples show it describing the nature or quality of an initial phase or event.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Sport

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a start like this" is a common phrase used to describe the nature of an initial situation or event. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and is frequently found in news, media, and sports contexts. It's generally neutral in register but less common in formal academic or scientific writing. When you need to emphasize surprise or significance about a beginning, "a start like this" is often apt. However, for more formal contexts, consider alternatives such as "an opening like this" or "a beginning of this kind".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an opening like this

Focuses on the initial event or opportunity, emphasizing the beginning.

a beginning of this kind

Highlights the nature and characteristics of the initial phase.

such an initial phase

Emphasizes the specific stage or period at the beginning.

an inaugural period like this one

Draws attention to the commencement of something with similar attributes.

a kick-off like this one

Implies an energetic or impactful commencement.

a launching point of this nature

Stresses the commencement as a foundation for future progress.

an early stage of this sort

Emphasizes the immaturity and development potential.

a preliminary phase like this

Highlights the exploratory or preparatory aspect of the beginning.

a genesis like this one

Evokes the creation or origin aspect of the beginning.

a commencement like this

Focuses on the formal or ceremonial beginning.

FAQs

How can I use "a start like this" in a sentence?

You can use "a start like this" to refer to an initial situation or event, whether positive or negative. For example: "After "a start like this", we knew the project was doomed" or "I wasn't expecting "a start like this", but I am glad it happened!"

What are some alternatives to "a start like this"?

You can use alternatives like "an opening like this", "a beginning of this kind", or "such an initial phase" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "a start like this"?

The phrase is suitable in everyday conversations, informal writing, and news reports. However, it might be less appropriate in formal academic or business contexts where more precise language is preferred.

What does "a start like this" imply?

The phrase often implies that the beginning is either surprising, unexpected, or significant in some noteworthy way. It can be used to emphasize either a positive or negative initial situation.