a strained start

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a strained start" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a beginning that is difficult, tense, or lacking in ease, often in contexts such as relationships, projects, or events. Example: "The project had a strained start due to miscommunication among team members, but it eventually gained momentum."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

After a strained start, relations between the Administration and Beijing appear to have improved in recent weeks.

The New Yorker

Couric got off to a strained start, proving to be a halting reader of the teleprompter and a tense clutcher of the ceremonial pen and shuffler of the ceremonial papers.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Aides to Mr. Roh have expressed concern recently over the potential for a badly strained start to relations with the Bush administration and were eager to send a friendly and businesslike message to Washington even before the new government here takes office in February.

The New York Times

The right-hander Bobby Jones, who was scheduled to make his first start after missing a month with a strained right calf, will start tonight against Arizona.

The New York Times - Sports

Olave, who missed Wednesday night's conference semifinal against Seattle with a strained right quadriceps, started and played 82 minutes.

The New York Times - Sports

AROUND THE LEAGUE Pittsburgh wide receiver Hines Ward has been ruled out of tomorrow's game at Arizona because of a sprained right knee.... Minnesota quarterback Tarvaris Jackson's groin is still sore, meaning Kelly Holcomb will get his second straight start.... Colts linebacker Rob Morris, who has missed two games with a strained abdominal muscle, will start tomorrow.

The New York Times

BLUE JAYS 5, RED SOX 0 Boston's John Lackey left with a strained biceps in his first start since September 2011, grabbing his right arm in pain and coming out in the fifth inning of Boston's loss to host Toronto.

The New York Times - Sports

Greinke, whose spring was hampered by a strained calf, made his first start of the season Tuesday for the Dodgers, and if the complete package wasn't exactly ace material, at least it was in the neighborhood.

Los Angeles Times

INSIDE PITCH ANDY PETTITTE, who missed his last start with a strained muscle in his lower back, will start against Boston tonight.

The New York Times - Sports

Andy Pettitte, who has recovered from a strained left elbow, will start the home opener that Friday against Tampa Bay.

The New York Times - Sports

Bell, who has a bruised left knee and a strained groin, did not start last night's game against the Houston Astros and he conceded that he could miss several games.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a strained start", provide context about the cause of the strain to enhance clarity. For example, specify whether the strain is due to interpersonal issues, resource limitations, or external pressures.

Common error

Avoid using "a strained start" too frequently without varying your language. Over-reliance on this phrase can make your writing sound repetitive. Instead, use synonyms like "rocky beginning" or "difficult onset" to add variety and maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a strained start" functions as a noun phrase, where "strained" modifies the noun "start". It describes the quality of the beginning of something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, indicating its standard usage in English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a strained start" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in English, as validated by Ludwig AI. While relatively rare in occurrence, it effectively describes a beginning characterized by tension or difficulty. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it serves to set the stage for understanding potential challenges that follow. To improve clarity, it's beneficial to specify the source of the strain. Remember to vary your vocabulary with synonyms such as "rocky beginning" or "difficult onset" to avoid repetition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a troubled beginning

This alternative emphasizes the presence of problems or difficulties from the very beginning.

a rocky kickoff

This phrase implies an unstable and challenging initial phase, similar to navigating rocky terrain.

a difficult launch

This option highlights the struggle associated with getting something started or underway.

an inauspicious commencement

This is a more formal way of saying that the beginning was unfavorable or unlucky.

a hesitant inception

This phrase emphasizes the lack of confidence or sureness at the start.

a shaky foundation

This alternative suggests that the initial setup or basis is unstable and prone to problems.

an awkward dawn

This phrase illustrates a start that is uncomfortable and lacking in grace.

a bumpy ride from the start

This highlights a lack of smooth or easy progress in the initial stages.

a creaky ignition

This alternative illustrates that the start may encounter obstacles and noises.

a sluggish head start

This indicates that the initial advantage or beginning was slow and ineffective.

FAQs

How can I use "a strained start" in a sentence?

You can use "a strained start" to describe a beginning that is difficult or tense. For instance, "The project had "a strained start" due to lack of funding".

What are some alternatives to "a strained start"?

Alternatives include "a rocky beginning", "a difficult onset", or "a troubled beginning" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a strained start" or "a difficult start"?

Both phrases are correct, but "a strained start" implies tension or pressure, while "a difficult start" simply indicates challenges. The better choice depends on the specific situation you're describing.

What makes "a strained start" different from "a slow start"?

"A slow start" refers to the pace of progress, whereas "a strained start" refers to the quality of the beginning, suggesting tension or difficulty, not necessarily a lack of speed. For example, the project's "a strained start" was due to interpersonal conflict, not a lack of initial speed.