begins

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "begins" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate the start of an action, event, or process. Example: "The meeting begins at 10 AM sharp, so please be on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

If one begins to list the artists – Schiele, Klimt, Kokoschka; then the musicians – Mahler, Schönberg, Berg, Webern – one is already marvelling.

The Guardian - Arts

Updated at 12.37pm ET Facebook Twitter Google plus Share Share this post Facebook Twitter Google plus close 11.01am ET16:01 The president begins speaking.

The Guardian

The play begins with a long sequence where the characters are tossing a coin to fill time.

The Guardian

Click to view Jessy Lanza's Kathy Lee here What we said: "For all the mash-ups, Bangerz feels stitched together in the dark, and the attention-seeking begins to grate.

The Guardian - Music

Counting of votes in Ireland's landmark referendum on gay marriage begins at 9am Saturday as the government and rights campaigners bid to make history.

The Guardian

In 18 months, a new franchise competition begins to run the services, potentially a moment at which upgrades will be ordered.

The Guardian

Martyn Rooney, who will compete in the men's 4x400m, believes that all four British teams are capable of making the podium at the event, which begins on 24 May.

The Guardian - Sport

The short oration, which begins, "Four score and seven years ago", is remembered as a momentous reflection on what the Civil War meant for the survival of United States and the viability of liberty.

The Guardian

But the wider community also has a responsibility to that child; and, just as it does for the parents, that begins before the child is even conceived.

The Guardian - Opinion

Wigan v St Helens is not the only high-octane derby as the feast of rugby league begins on Thursday when Hull FC lock horns with their city rivals.

The Guardian - Sport

Through a programme of workshops, discussions and one-to-one tuition, you'll get to grips with all the major components of telling a story - and what you have to do before the writing even begins.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, choose synonyms for "begins" that best reflect the tone and formality of your piece. For instance, use "commences" in formal documents and "kicks off" in casual settings.

Common error

Avoid using "begins" repeatedly in close proximity within your writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "starts", "commences", or "initiates" to improve readability and style.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "begins" is that of a verb, specifically the third-person singular present tense form. It is used to indicate the start of an action, event, or process. As Ludwig AI suggests, it is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "begins" is a versatile and frequently used verb indicating the start of an action, event, or process. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, though synonyms like "starts" or "commences" may be more appropriate depending on the level of formality. The phrase is most commonly found in news and media sources. While "begins" is generally neutral in register, overuse should be avoided to maintain stylistic variation and clarity in writing. Its communicative purpose is to inform the audience about the commencement of something.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Starts

A common and versatile synonym for "begins", suitable for most contexts.

Commences

A more formal synonym for "begins", often used in official or ceremonial contexts.

Initiates

Implies a more deliberate or formal start to something.

Gets underway

Suggests that something is starting after preparation or planning.

Launches

Suggests a formal or well-prepared start, often used for products or initiatives.

Kicks off

An informal phrase suggesting an energetic or exciting start.

Originates

Focuses on the point of origin or creation.

Arises

Suggests something comes into existence or becomes apparent.

Springs from

Implies that something emerges or develops from a source.

Erupts

Implies a sudden and forceful beginning.

FAQs

How can I use "begins" in a sentence?

You can use "begins" to indicate the start of an event, process, or action. For example, "The concert "begins" at 8 PM" or "The project "begins" with a planning phase".

What are some alternatives to the word "begins"?

Some alternatives to "begins" include "starts", "commences", "initiates", and "gets underway". The best choice depends on the context and desired formality.

Is there a difference between "begins" and "starts"?

While "begins" and "starts" are often interchangeable, "begins" can sometimes imply a more formal or significant commencement than "starts". The choice often comes down to stylistic preference.

When is it more appropriate to use "commences" instead of "begins"?

"Commences" is a more formal synonym for "begins" and is typically used in official documents, ceremonies, or situations where a higher degree of formality is desired. For example, "The ceremony "commences" promptly at noon".