as a start of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a start of" is not correct in standard written English.
It is typically intended to indicate the beginning of something, but the correct expression would be "as a start to" or "as a starting point." Example: "As a start to our discussion, let's review the main objectives of the project."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

However we still see the model as solid and do not see this downgrade as a start of a business heading into a downward spiral.

The Guardian - Business

"The contracts being signed with Cuba should not be seen as as a start of an ongoing commercial relationship with Cuba," Mr. Kavulich said.

The New York Times

We consider this article only as a start of such an endeavor.

Large-scale Assessments in Education

It was anticipated that the students would use these videos to recap on the main points as a start of, or alternative to, further reading.

International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education

Most saw the process as a start of a negotiation over the future of Europe and chose not to reveal their hands so early on in the process.

BBC

While this app wouldn't bring full versions of Mario to smartphones, it was widely viewed as a start of something big.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

I see this as, yes, a start of something I would like to extend further".

Independent

Certainly, as a start, schools of public health should draw on expertise located in a much wider array of disciplines.

BMC International Health and Human Rights

As a start, with heightened security and intelligence, of course.

The New Yorker

As a start, an overview of current DSTs is required.

Environmental Health: A Global Access Science Source

As a starting point of simulation the adsorption branch of N2 isotherm was considered from which the pore size distribution was estimated.

Chemical Engineering Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Prefer using grammatically correct alternatives like "as a start to" or "as a starting point" for clarity and professionalism.

Common error

Avoid using "of" after "start"; instead, use "to" to correctly indicate the direction or purpose. For example, write "as a start to the project" instead of "as a start of the project".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a start of" functions as an introductory phrase, intended to indicate the beginning or initiation of something. However, Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically incorrect. The correct alternatives include "as a start to" or "as a starting point".

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

36%

Formal & Business

21%

Less common in

Social Media

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "as a start of" is commonly used, Ludwig AI analysis indicates that it is grammatically incorrect. The correct alternatives are "as a start to" or "as a starting point". Predominantly found in science, news and media, and formal and business contexts, its function is to signal the beginning of something. For clearer and more professional communication, it is recommended to opt for the grammatically correct alternatives. Be careful when using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as a beginning to

Emphasizes the commencement of an action or process; more formal.

as an initial step for

Highlights the first action taken towards a larger goal; more specific.

to initiate

Focuses on the act of starting something; more concise.

as a prelude to

Suggests an introductory action preceding a main event; more formal and literary.

as a kick-off for

Implies a lively or energetic beginning; more informal.

to get the ball rolling

Highlights the commencement of an action; highly idiomatic.

as a launchpad for

Highlights the first action taken towards a larger goal; more metaphorical.

by way of introduction

Formally introduces a topic or action; more verbose.

in order to begin

States the purpose of starting something; more direct.

as an opening for

Suggests creating an opportunity; more figurative.

FAQs

What is the correct way to say "as a start of"?

The correct way to phrase this is "as a start to" or "as a starting point". For example, "As a start to our negotiations, let's define the key objectives".

Is it grammatically correct to use "as a start of"?

No, it is not grammatically correct. The proper phrasing is "as a start to" or "as a starting point".

What can I use instead of "as a start of" in a sentence?

You can use phrases like "as a beginning to", "as an initial step", or "to initiate" to convey a similar meaning.

How can I avoid errors when using phrases related to starting something?

Always double-check the preposition following "start". Use "to" to indicate the direction or purpose. Remember that "as a starting point" is also a correct and often preferred alternative.