began a relationship

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "began a relationship" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing the initiation of a romantic or personal connection between individuals. Example: "After months of friendship, they finally began a relationship that blossomed into something beautiful."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

She began a relationship with a woman.

Independent

In 1973 she began a relationship with actor Jack Nicholson.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Ball began a relationship with Billy Yates, a BBC cameraman.

The Guardian

Mr. McNally and Mr. Kirdahy began a relationship.

The New York Times

In 1963 he began a relationship with Marlborough.

The New York Times - Arts

It began a relationship with George Heye and his museum that lasted, intermittently, for seventeen years.

Cornell University

Thus began a relationship that would define and perhaps undo Blalock's basketball career.

The New York Times - Sports

They began a relationship that was filial, intellectual, and marked by romantic gestures.

The New Yorker

After Pollock's death, she began a relationship with de Kooning that lasted several years.

The New York Times

About this time, Susan began a relationship with a young campaign aide named Pat Harris.

The New Yorker

In 1932 Chaplin began a relationship with young starlet Paulette Goddard.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "began a relationship" to clearly indicate the starting point of a connection. It's especially useful in formal writing or when establishing a timeline of events.

Common error

Avoid using "began a relationship" when you want to emphasize a sudden, passionate start. Instead, consider more descriptive alternatives like "ignited a romance" or "sparked a connection".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "began a relationship" functions as a verb phrase indicating the commencement of a connection between two or more entities. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct. The examples show the phrase used with people, institutions, and abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Wiki

30%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Academia

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "began a relationship" is a versatile and grammatically correct phrase used to describe the starting point of a connection between entities. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It is most frequently found in news and media, as well as encyclopedic entries and academic papers. While generally neutral in tone, its specific formality depends on the context. Consider alternatives like "started a relationship" or "initiated a relationship" to fine-tune the nuance you want to convey. Avoid using it when you want to emphasize a sudden or intense connection.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

started a relationship

Replaces "began" with "started", offering a more common and slightly less formal alternative.

initiated a relationship

Substitutes "began" with "initiated", suggesting a more formal or deliberate start to the relationship.

entered into a relationship

Replaces "began" with "entered into", implying a formal or committed start to the relationship.

formed a relationship

Emphasizes the creation and development of a bond or connection.

commenced a relationship

Uses "commenced" for "began", making it more formal and less frequently used.

developed a relationship

Highlights the gradual evolution of a connection over time.

established a relationship

Suggests a more official or structured start to the relationship, often used in business or formal contexts.

cultivated a relationship

Implies a nurturing and intentional effort to build the relationship.

struck up a relationship

Suggests a more casual and spontaneous beginning to the relationship.

sparked a relationship

Indicates a sudden or passionate beginning to the relationship.

FAQs

How can I use "began a relationship" in a sentence?

You can use "began a relationship" to describe the start of a connection between people. For example, "After several dates, they "began a relationship" that quickly became serious."

What are some alternatives to "began a relationship"?

Alternatives include "started a relationship", "entered into a relationship", or "formed a relationship". The best choice depends on the context and desired nuance.

Is it more formal to say "commenced a relationship" instead of "began a relationship"?

Yes, "commenced a relationship" is more formal. "Began a relationship" is suitable for most contexts, while "commenced" is often used in legal or official documents.

What is the difference between "developed a relationship" and "began a relationship"?

"Began a relationship" indicates the starting point, while "developed a relationship" suggests the gradual growth and strengthening of the connection over time.