begin to surface

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "begin to surface" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is starting to become visible, known, or apparent, often after being hidden or unnoticed. Example: "As the investigation progressed, new evidence began to surface that changed the course of the case."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Because it can be very painful when emotions begin to surface that you've been stuffing down.

The Guardian - Film

Then the Sea Cliff will begin to surface, gradually unreeling the lifting line.

The New York Times

When you plough through this account and many others, different perspectives begin to surface.

The Guardian

Pressures did begin to surface in some publications even before the elections.

The New York Times

But the work of N.F.L. scouts must be especially precise during later rounds, when lesser-known players begin to surface.

The New York Times - Sports

Some economists, however, warned that the indirect damage from SARS might begin to surface only in the coming months.

The New York Times

They have an almost-courtship of half-sightings and presences felt, but when Maureen's niece moves in, jealousies begin to surface.

The Guardian - Books

The reason for all this remains hidden until far into the novel, when submerged, uncertain memories of atrocity begin to surface.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Other episodes began to surface.

The New York Times

Stories of graft began to surface.

The New Yorker

More theories began to surface.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "begin to surface" when describing the initial stages of something becoming visible, known, or apparent after a period of being hidden or unnoticed. It's suitable for describing gradual revelations or emerging issues.

Common error

While "begin to surface" is versatile, avoid overusing it in very formal or academic writing. Consider more precise synonyms like "emerge", "become evident", or "materialize" for a more sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "begin to surface" functions as an infinitive verb phrase. It describes the action of something starting to become visible or apparent. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature, appearing across a wide range of contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "begin to surface" is a versatile infinitive verb phrase indicating the initial stage of something becoming visible or apparent. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage. It's prevalent in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business contexts. While generally neutral, consider more precise synonyms for highly formal writing. Alternatives include "start to appear" and "start to emerge". Remember to use the correct conjugation ("begins" for singular subjects) and to differentiate it from "come to light", which implies a more complete revelation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

start to appear

Focuses on the act of becoming visible, emphasizing the appearance aspect.

start to emerge

Suggests a gradual process of coming out or developing.

begin to manifest

Highlights the materialization or realization of something abstract or previously unseen.

become apparent

Emphasizes the quality of being easily seen or understood.

start to materialize

Implies the process of becoming real or concrete.

begin to arise

Indicates the commencement of something coming into existence or prominence.

start to unfold

Suggests a gradual revelation or development of events or information.

begin to dawn

Implies a gradual understanding or realization, similar to the breaking of daylight.

come to light

Emphasizes the uncovering or discovery of something previously hidden.

begin to show

Focuses on the initial signs or indications of something becoming visible.

FAQs

How can I use "begin to surface" in a sentence?

You can use "begin to surface" to describe the initial appearance of something that was previously hidden or unknown. For example, "As the investigation progressed, new details "began to surface"."

What are some alternatives to "begin to surface"?

Alternatives include "start to appear", "start to emerge", or "become apparent". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "begins to surface" instead of "begin to surface"?

The correct form depends on the subject. Use "begins to surface" for singular subjects (e.g., "The problem begins to surface"). Use "begin to surface" for plural subjects (e.g., "The problems begin to surface").

What is the difference between "begin to surface" and "come to light"?

"Begin to surface" suggests the initial stage of something becoming visible or known, while "come to light" implies a more complete revelation or discovery. Something can "begin to surface" before it fully "comes to light".