can start with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can start with" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something may begin or be initiated by a specific element or action. Example: "The presentation can start with an overview of the main topics we will cover today."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

These can start with the application process.

The New York Times

"And you can start with the ballpark".

The New York Times - Sports

You can start with some easy ones.

The New York Times - Sports

Bradley can start with a clean slate.

The New York Times

Trafficking can start with a kidnapping.

The New Yorker

We can start with Finland.

The Washington Post

I can start with my hands.

University of California, Berkeley

"We can start with a blank slate".

The New York Times - Magazine

"You can start with this", she replied.

The Guardian - Opinion

We can start with teachers in schools.

The Guardian - Opinion

We can start with the obvious.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When instructing someone, use "can start with" to suggest a clear and logical beginning point. For example: "If you're new to coding, you can start with Python because it's beginner-friendly."

Common error

While "can start with" is versatile, avoid repetitive use in formal contexts. Instead, vary your language with alternatives like "begin by", "initiate with", or "commence with" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can start with" functions as a verb phrase indicating a suggestion or possibility for initiating an action or process. It is often used to provide a starting point, as seen in Ludwig's examples like "You can start with simple ones."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Academia

20%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can start with" is a versatile and common expression used to suggest a potential beginning point for an action or process. As Ludwig AI indicates, its grammatical status is correct, and it appears frequently in diverse contexts, including News & Media, Academia, and Wiki sources. While highly useful, particularly for providing clear initial guidance, it's important to consider its potential overuse, especially in formal writing. In such cases, synonyms such as "begin by" or "initiate with" may offer a more polished tone. Remember to use "can start with" as a compass pointing towards a sensible starting point.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

could begin by

Replaces "can" with "could", suggesting a possibility rather than a definite action, and replaces "start with" with "begin by".

might commence with

Substitutes "can" with "might", indicating a lower probability, and uses the more formal "commence" instead of "start".

may initiate through

Replaces "can start" with "may initiate", offering a slightly more formal tone, and changes "with" to "through".

one could launch into

Uses "one could" for a more impersonal tone, and "launch into" instead of "start with", implying a more energetic beginning.

you might consider starting with

Adds a suggestion, using "you might consider", and retains "starting with" for familiarity.

a good first step is

Focuses on the initial action, presenting it as a recommended step rather than an option.

the process could be initiated by

Puts emphasis on the process itself and uses a passive voice to describe the initiation.

it's advisable to begin with

Recommends a course of action, suggesting that starting with something is a good idea.

an appropriate initial action involves

Highlights the suitability of an action as the first step in a process, using a more formal structure.

let's kick things off with

Presents a more casual and energetic alternative, suitable for informal settings.

FAQs

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

The phrase "can start with" is used to suggest a starting point or initial step in a process or action. For example: "You "can start with" the introduction when writing your essay."

What are some alternatives to saying "can start with"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "begin with", "initiate with", "commence with", or "a good first step is". For instance, instead of saying "You "can start with" stretching", you could say "Begin with stretching".

Is it grammatically correct to say "can start with"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase "can start with" follows standard English grammar rules and is widely used in both formal and informal contexts, as confirmed by Ludwig.

What's the difference between "can start with" and "should start with"?

"Can start with" suggests a possible starting point, while "should start with" implies a recommendation or advice. "You "can start with" the exercises" suggests an option, whereas "You should start with the exercises" suggests it's the best or recommended approach.