by starting

USAGE SUMMARY

"by starting" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is often used as part of an instruction or as a way to explain an action, usually in the form "start by doing X". For example, "Start by tidying your room and then you can play video games."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Some people do better by starting small; others, by starting big.

The Guardian - Opinion

Mr. Kerkorian reacted by starting a $23 billion takeover attempt.

The New York Times

They did it by starting small and then growing it.

The Guardian

He began by starting a race in Central Park.

The New York Times

Tells how they learn by starting on a drum.

The New Yorker

In other words, building AOL by starting with "The Sopranos".

The New York Times

And he offered proof by starting light training yesterday.

The New York Times - Sports

They took matters into their own hands by starting companies.

The New York Times

There are often savings to be made by starting anew".

Independent

They responded by starting E/Town in 1995.

Forbes

I'll answer this by starting with cash.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "by starting" to clearly indicate the initial step or action in a process. This provides clarity and helps the reader understand where to begin.

Common error

Avoid using "by starting" when you mean to describe a continuous or ongoing action. Use it specifically for the initiation phase. For example, instead of "The engine runs by starting it", use "The engine runs after starting it."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by starting" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase introducing a gerund, indicating the means or method by which something is achieved. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage is both correct and common in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "by starting" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed construction used to highlight the initial action or method within a process. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and widespread applicability across diverse writing styles. As evidenced by the numerous examples from news outlets, scientific publications, and general reference sites, this prepositional phrase serves as a versatile tool for providing clear instructions and explanations. To ensure clarity and precision, it's important to reserve its usage for the initiation phase rather than continuous actions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by initiating

Focuses on the act of beginning or setting something in motion.

by commencing

Emphasizes a formal or ceremonious start.

by embarking on

Highlights the beginning of a journey or undertaking.

through the start of

Indicates a process that happens because of the beginning of something.

by getting underway with

Implies that something is now in progress.

by setting off with

Suggests starting a journey or activity with a particular goal or intention.

by inaugurating

Implies a formal or official beginning.

by instigating

Suggests initiating an action, often with a negative or controversial connotation.

by pioneering

Emphasizes being the first to start or develop something.

by originating

Focuses on the source or beginning of something.

FAQs

How can I use "by starting" in a sentence?

The phrase "by starting" is used to indicate the initial step or method in a process or action. For example, "You can improve your health "by starting" with a balanced diet and regular exercise."

What are some alternatives to "by starting"?

Alternatives to "by starting" include phrases like "by initiating", "by commencing", or "by beginning", depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it correct to say "starting by" instead of "by starting"?

While "starting by" is grammatically correct, the phrase ""by starting"" often provides a slightly clearer and more concise way to introduce the initial step of an action or process.

What's the difference between "by starting" and "in starting"?

"By starting" indicates the method used to achieve a result, whereas "in starting" would be less common and might imply the act of starting itself. "By starting a business, you gain experience" is more common than "In starting a business, you gain experience".