as we started

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as we started" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer back to the beginning of a discussion, project, or activity, indicating a return to the initial point or method. Example: "Let's continue our discussion as we started, focusing on the main objectives we outlined earlier."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

As we started to leave, Frum smiled.

The New Yorker

As we started, the passengers relaxed.

The Guardian - Travel

He relaxed as soon as we started to move off.

The New York Times

"But we got over it as we started building".

The New York Times - Arts

As we started to drive off, Jana remembered something.

The New Yorker

As soon as we started, it just felt right.

The New York Times

But the multidimensional approach arose as we started working.

The New York Times

But as soon as we started shooting, I was relieved".

The New York Times

Luckily, we clicked as soon as we started talking.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But as we started to learn more, our focus shifted.

The Guardian

Then she smiled on cue as we started snapping her picture.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as we started", ensure the context makes it clear what specific activity or process is being referred to. Avoid ambiguity by specifying the subject if necessary.

Common error

Avoid using "as we started" when you actually mean "after we started" or "since we started". The phrase specifically refers to the initial moments or approach, not the subsequent progression.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as we started" functions as a temporal conjunction, introducing a clause that indicates when something else occurred. This use is supported by Ludwig, which confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "as we started" is a grammatically sound and frequently used temporal conjunction that introduces a clause specifying when an action or process began. According to Ludwig, its widespread use across various contexts, particularly in news and media, underscores its versatility and reliability. The phrase serves primarily to provide a temporal reference point, contextualizing subsequent events and observations. Its neutral register makes it suitable for a wide range of communications, from professional reports to casual narratives. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure the context clearly defines the activity being referenced, avoiding ambiguity and clarifying the timeframe. To avoid confusion, remember that "as we started" specifically refers to the initial moments, not the continuation of an activity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as we initiated

Similar to "as we started", but implies a more deliberate or planned beginning.

once we began

Suggests that something happened immediately after the starting point.

when we commenced

Implies a formal or official start to an activity or project.

in the beginning

A simple and direct way to refer to the start of an event or period.

at the outset

Indicates the start of something, often used in a formal or structured context.

upon our commencement

Emphasizes a formal beginning or official start.

right from the start

Emphasizes that something was true or evident from the very beginning.

in the initial phase

Focuses on the beginning stage of a project or process.

at the onset

Highlights the very beginning, often implying a potential challenge or condition arising early on.

from the get-go

An informal way of saying "from the beginning", suitable for casual contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "as we started" in a sentence?

You can use "as we started" to refer back to the beginning of an activity or discussion. For example: "As we started, our focus was on the main objectives."

What are some alternatives to "as we started"?

Alternatives include phrases like "as we began", "when we commenced", or "in the beginning", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "as we started" grammatically correct?

Yes, "as we started" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English to indicate the commencement of an action or a return to initial conditions.

What's the difference between "as we started" and "after we started"?

"As we started" refers to the initial moments or the approach taken at the beginning, while "after we started" refers to the period following the commencement of the activity.