as a starter

USAGE SUMMARY

"as a starter" is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used to introduce or start something in a sentence. For example: "As a starter, I would like to discuss the upcoming budget for the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Serve as a starter or a side.

The New York Times - Health

Keep him as a starter.

The New York Times - Sports

Serves four as a starter.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Serves 4 as a starter.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But as a starter, I'd be surprised.

The New York Times

And he will, immediately, as a starter.

The New York Times - Sports

Serves eight to 10 as a starter.

The Guardian - Travel

Oysters, as a starter, are from Connecticut.

The New York Times

Serves six as a starter or snack.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Serves four, or six as a starter.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Serves four to six as a starter.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as a starter" to introduce the initial item in a series or the first action in a process. It helps to clearly mark the beginning of something, whether it's a meal, a discussion, or a task.

Common error

Avoid using "as a starter" in the middle of a sentence when you intend to convey a different meaning such as comparison or substitution. Using phrases like "as an alternative" or "instead" can often be more appropriate and clear in such contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a starter" primarily functions as an introductory prepositional phrase. It is used to indicate the beginning of something, often introducing an initial item, action, or point in a sequence. According to Ludwig AI, this usage is correct and common.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as a starter" is a grammatically correct and commonly used prepositional phrase that serves to introduce the beginning of something. According to Ludwig AI, this usage is appropriate and well-supported by numerous examples from reliable sources. Predominantly found in News & Media contexts, "as a starter" helps to organize information by signaling the first item, action, or point in a sequence. While versatile, it's important to avoid misusing it mid-sentence when a different meaning is intended, opting instead for alternatives like "as an alternative" or "instead" to maintain clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for starters

Emphasizes the first few items or points in a series.

first of all

Highlights the first point in a sequence of arguments or reasons.

to begin with

Focuses on the initial action or point, similar to starting a process.

as an introduction

Specifically refers to introducing a topic or idea.

in the first place

Similar to "first of all" but can also imply a sense of priority or importance.

initially

Highlights the beginning stage or phase.

by way of introduction

A more formal way of saying "as an introduction".

at the beginning

Indicates a point in time, referring to the start.

in the beginning

Similar to "at the beginning" but can also have a broader, more philosophical connotation.

to kick things off

An informal idiom for starting an event or activity.

FAQs

How can I use "as a starter" in a sentence?

You can use "as a starter" to introduce the first item or action in a sequence. For example, "As a starter, let's review the project goals" or "We could have soup as a starter".

What phrases can I use instead of "as a starter"?

Alternatives to "as a starter" include phrases like "to begin with", "for starters", or "initially", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "for starter" instead of "as a starter"?

The correct phrase is "for starters", not "for starter". While "as a starter" is also correct, they have slightly different usages. "For starters" is often used when listing multiple initial points, while "as a starter" can be used for a single beginning action or item.

What's the difference between "as a starter" and "as a beginning"?

"As a starter" is more specific and commonly used to introduce a first item or action, especially in contexts like meals or tasks. "As a beginning" is broader and refers more generally to the commencement or origin of something.