can to start

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can to start" is not correct in English and does not convey a clear meaning.
It seems to be an incorrect combination of words that may be intended to express the ability to begin something. Example: "I can start the project as soon as I receive the necessary materials."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

"We're going to do what we can to start moving the needle".

The New York Times

Remember that the only measurements they have are for a full can and a full vial, but they also know there is 1.2litres of rum punch in the jerry can to start with.

The Guardian

He told BBC London 94.9: "The first job is to try everything you possibly can to start winning some games.

BBC

Use shortcuts and as little capital as you can to start generating revenue.

Huffington Post

You can to start to believe that you are worthy of all the gifts life offers and you can attract these into your life.

Huffington Post

Paint a vision for your career and life that inspires you then decide to put yourself 'out there' (that is, outside your comfort zone!) and do whatever you can to start building your own brand of luck.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

You can choose to start begonias from cuttings as well.

WikiHow

Selling online, you can afford to start smaller.

WikiHow

Tap the trash can icon to start deleting a comment.

WikiHow

Once you become experienced and your work improves, then you can start to start to sell your paintings!

WikiHow

Colons can be used to start lists.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using the phrase "can to start" in formal writing. Opt for grammatically correct alternatives like "can begin" or "able to start" to maintain clarity and professionalism.

Common error

The phrase "can to start" incorrectly combines a modal verb with an infinitive. Ensure the modal verb 'can' is followed directly by the base form of the verb, such as "can start".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can to start" functions as an attempt to express the ability or permission to begin an action. However, it deviates from standard English grammar, as noted by Ludwig AI, which identifies it as an incorrect word combination.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Wiki

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can to start" is grammatically incorrect, despite appearing in some informal contexts. Ludwig AI underscores this by flagging it as an incorrect word combination. While it aims to convey the ability or permission to begin an action, it's advisable to use grammatically sound alternatives such as "can start" or "able to start" for clarity and professionalism. Predominantly found in news, wiki and science contexts, this expression should be carefully considered in formal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can begin

A more grammatically sound and direct substitute. It indicates the ability to initiate something.

can initiate

Highlights the act of setting something in motion.

able to commence

A formal substitute indicating the capability of initiating something.

can get underway

An idiomatic alternative suggesting the beginning of an activity or event.

can set about

Implies starting a task or activity with a specific purpose.

can proceed to start

Suggests a sequential action where one is able to move forward with the beginning.

ready to initiate

Focuses on the state of being prepared and capable of starting something.

permitted to start

Emphasizes that one has been given authorization or approval to begin.

allowed to start

Similar to 'permitted to start', but can also imply less formal permission.

in a position to begin

Indicates that one's circumstances enable them to start something.

FAQs

What is the correct way to express the ability to begin something?

Instead of "can to start", use "can start" or "able to start". These alternatives follow standard English grammar rules.

Is "can to start" grammatically correct?

No, "can to start" is grammatically incorrect. The modal verb "can" should be followed by the base form of the verb. The correct form is "can start".

Are there situations where "can to start" would be considered acceptable?

While "can to start" may occasionally appear in informal contexts, it's generally best to avoid it in formal or professional writing. Stick to grammatically correct alternatives like "can begin" or "able to commence" to ensure clarity.

What are some alternative ways to say "can to start" that are more formal?

For more formal alternatives, consider using phrases such as "able to initiate", "permitted to start", or "in a position to begin".