before we start

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "before we start" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate a preliminary step or consideration that should be addressed prior to beginning a task or discussion. Example: "Before we start the meeting, let's review the agenda to ensure we cover all important topics."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

As before, we start with x = 0.1.

Security Informatics

As before, we start by investigating the upper predictability limit bound.

EPJ Data Science

"Quick question before we start," Krasser said.

The New Yorker

Just a couple of quick administrative matters before we start.

Independent

Here's a confession before we start: I'm good at languages.

The Guardian

Before we start — on Aug. 30, you tweeted: "Getting married.

The New York Times

Before we start, what's the secret to a luxuriant quiff?

The Guardian - Music

We talk through the menu before we start to cook".

The New York Times - Food

"We arrive exhausted even before we start surgery".

The Guardian

E-mail address GO SIGN UP Share Tweet Nicki Greenberg: Before we start, Drew, one correction.

The New Yorker

I'm hoping we can do another showcase group before we start allowing signups.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "before we start" to clearly signal a transition or preparatory remark, ensuring your audience is ready for the main content. This helps manage expectations and keeps discussions focused.

Common error

Avoid using "before we start" excessively, as it can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your introductions with phrases like "to begin with" or "first of all" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "before we start" serves as an introductory marker, typically used to signal a transition or preface an upcoming activity, discussion, or task. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it helps in setting the stage and preparing the audience for what follows.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "before we start" is a grammatically sound and commonly used introductory phrase suitable for various contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide applicability, highlighting its role in setting context and managing expectations across news, scientific, and business domains. While versatile, it's advisable to avoid overuse by incorporating alternatives such as "prior to beginning" or "first of all" to enhance stylistic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prior to beginning

A slightly more formal alternative, stressing the temporal order.

in advance of starting

Stresses preparation or anticipation.

prior to commencing

More formal alternative, emphasizing a start or beginning.

ahead of beginning

Emphasizes the position in time preceding the start.

preceding the start

Highlights the temporal sequence leading up to the start.

previously to initiating

Highlights an action taken before initiation.

first of all

Emphasizes the initial step in a sequence of actions.

as an initial step

Highlights the role of the action as the beginning.

at the outset

Highlights something done very beginning.

to begin with

Highlights something done very beginning.

FAQs

How can I use "before we start" in a sentence?

Use "before we start" to introduce a preliminary statement, question, or action. For example, "Before we start the presentation, let's review the key objectives."

What are some alternatives to "before we start"?

Alternatives include "prior to beginning", "ahead of beginning", or "to begin with", depending on the desired level of formality.

Is it correct to say "before we started" instead of "before we start"?

"Before we started" implies you are referring to a past event or action. "Before we start" refers to something about to happen or a general practice. Choose based on the time frame you're discussing.

Can I use "before starting" instead of "before we start"?

Yes, "before starting" is grammatically correct and suitable when the subject is clear from context or less important to emphasize. For example: "Before starting, ensure all materials are prepared."