begin writing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "begin writing" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are launching into a written piece of work, either as an instruction or as a way to signal the start of a piece of writing. For example, "Now, let's begin writing the essay for our history class."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Begin writing the personal statement.

Columbia University

Once you begin writing, be selective.

The Guardian

How did you begin writing online?

The Guardian - Books

Not until 1978 did he begin writing.

The Guardian - Books

Begin writing early, well before the deadline.

Cornell University

This is all before we even begin writing any tunes.

The New York Times - Arts

But when did I expect to begin writing?

The New York Times - Books

I often begin writing columns by interviewing myself.

The New York Times

"The Bronte sisters did not suddenly begin writing great novels.

The Guardian

She didn't begin writing Only until years after his death.

The Guardian - Books

He was inspired to begin writing a novel/film-script.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When instructing someone to start a writing task, specify the type of writing if it's not already clear. For example, "begin writing your essay" is more precise than just "begin writing".

Common error

Avoid using "begin writing" when the context already implies the start of a writing task. For instance, instead of saying "After the lecture, begin writing your notes", simply say "After the lecture, write your notes".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "begin writing" primarily functions as an imperative when used to instruct someone to start a writing task. It can also act as a verbal phrase describing the action of commencing to write. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

32%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "begin writing" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that serves to initiate or describe the commencement of a writing activity. Ludwig AI validates its usability across various contexts. While alternatives like ""start writing"" exist, "begin writing" maintains a versatile and widely accepted presence, particularly in news, wiki and academic settings. Remember to use the phrase precisely and avoid redundancy, ensuring clarity in your instructions or descriptions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

start writing

Replaces "begin" with "start", a synonym, maintaining the same meaning.

get started writing

Adds "get started", emphasizing the act of beginning the writing task.

commence writing

Uses "commence", a more formal synonym for "begin", indicating a slightly elevated register.

initiate writing

Employs "initiate", suggesting a formal start to the writing process.

get down to writing

Emphasizes the practical aspect of starting to write, implying a focus on the task at hand.

launch into writing

Uses "launch into", conveying a sense of immediate and energetic engagement with the writing.

set about writing

Employs "set about", suggesting a deliberate and planned approach to writing.

embark on writing

Uses "embark on", connoting a more adventurous or exploratory approach to writing.

turn to writing

Suggests the writing is being approached after considering alternatives.

take up writing

Indicates that someone is starting to write as a new activity or hobby.

FAQs

How can I use "begin writing" in a sentence?

You can use "begin writing" to instruct someone to start writing, as in "The exam will start now, you may "begin writing" your answers". It can also describe the action of commencing to write something.

What are some alternatives to "begin writing"?

Some alternatives to "begin writing" include "start writing", "commence writing", and "get started writing", depending on the context and desired formality.

Is there a difference between "begin writing" and "start writing"?

While "begin writing" and "start writing" are largely interchangeable, "begin" can sometimes imply a more formal or deliberate initiation compared to "start".

When is it more appropriate to use "begin writing" versus "start writing"?

"Begin writing" may be preferred in formal instructions or professional settings, whereas "start writing" is suitable for general or informal contexts.