can start

USAGE SUMMARY

"can start" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used in the present tense to indicate the ability to begin something. Example: With the proper supplies, we can start the project right away.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

You can start small.

Independent

"Anytime, it can start".

The New York Times

"You can start live.

The Guardian - Music

We can start again".

The Guardian - Music

We can start something.

The New York Times - Magazine

"We can start now".

The New York Times

You can start here.

Cornell University

He can start right now.

The New York Times

Then you can start riffing.

The New York Times - Food

We can start life again".

The Guardian

The clock can start anew.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can start", ensure the context clearly indicates what action or process is being initiated. Providing specific details enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "can start" when referring to a past event. Use "could start" or "was able to start" instead. Also, ensure that the sentence provides enough context about what "can start".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can start" functions as a modal verb followed by a main verb, indicating the ability, permission, or possibility to initiate an action. Ludwig provides examples demonstrating its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Academia

29%

Wiki

24%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Science

4%

Science

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can start" is a versatile phrase used to indicate the ability, permission, or possibility of beginning an action or process. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Academia and Wiki. When using "can start", clarity and context are key. Alternatives like "is able to begin" or "is permitted to commence" can offer nuanced shades of meaning. Remember to check the sentence provides enough context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can commence

Replaces "start" with a more formal synonym "commence" keeping the meaning close to the original.

is able to begin

Replaces "can start" with a more formal expression of ability.

is allowed to initiate

Replaces "can start" with a phrase that focuses on permission to begin something.

is set to begin

Highlights preparedness and intention to start soon.

is permitted to commence

Substitutes "can start" with a phrase that emphasizes permission and formality.

is ready to initiate

Emphasizes readiness as the primary condition for starting.

is free to launch

Uses "free to launch" to convey the idea of having the liberty to start.

is in a position to commence

Replaces "can start" with a phrase that highlights the readiness to begin.

has the green light to begin

Replaces "can start" with an idiomatic expression indicating approval to start.

may commence

Replaces "can start" with a more formal and tentative suggestion of beginning.

FAQs

How can I use "can start" in a sentence?

"Can start" indicates the ability or permission to begin something. For example, "We "can start" the project once we have the necessary resources."

What can I say instead of "can start"?

You can use alternatives like "is able to begin", "is permitted to commence", or "is allowed to initiate depending on the context".

Which is correct, "can start" or "can be started"?

"Can start" indicates the ability to initiate something, while "can be started" implies that something is able to be initiated by someone or something else. The choice depends on the intended meaning.

What's the difference between "can start" and "will start"?

"Can start" expresses the possibility or ability to begin, whereas "will start" indicates a future intention or certainty of beginning. "We "can start"" suggests we are able, and "we "will start"" implies we intend to.