commence a new chapter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "commence a new chapter" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to starting a new phase or period in life, work, or a project. Example: "After years of hard work, I feel ready to commence a new chapter in my career."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Together we end an important phase of our lives and education and commence a new chapter.

MIT Technology Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

If you're following Carton Cuse on Twitter (twitter.com/CarltonCuse and yes, it's a potentially spoilery read this side of the Atlantic), you might have seen this message on Tuesday: "Tonight a new chapter in the season commences".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Kevin Pietersen will write a new chapter in his T20 career on Thursday when Melbourne Stars commence this winter's Big Bash League against Adelaide Strikers.

The Guardian - Sport

It's a new chapter.

The New York Times - Sports

"She had a new chapter," Roger Peltzman said.

The New York Times

He called it a "new chapter".

The New Yorker

"Yesterday a new chapter started," Gimelstob said.

The New York Times - Sports

A new chapter began.

The Guardian

A new chapter lay ahead.

The Washington Post

Today marks a new chapter".

The Guardian - Tech

Now comes a new chapter.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "commence a new chapter" to add a touch of formality or sophistication when describing the beginning of a new phase in a project, career, or personal life. Ensure the context warrants the slightly elevated tone.

Common error

Avoid using "commence a new chapter" in very casual conversations or writing. The word "commence" can sound overly formal or pretentious in everyday contexts where simpler alternatives like "start" or "begin" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "commence a new chapter" functions as a declarative statement, signaling the initiation of a new phase or period. This is evident in the Ludwig example where it marks the transition from one stage of life/education to another. It shares its intent with other examples using phrases such as "a new chapter began" or "today marks a new chapter".

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "commence a new chapter" signifies the start of a new phase, with a slightly formal tone. As supported by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and appropriate for use in writing and speech when you want to denote the beginning of something with importance. While it is less common than alternatives like "begin a new chapter" or "start a new chapter", it adds a level of sophistication suitable for professional contexts, especially news and media. Overusing it in casual settings should be avoided. The single Ludwig example supports the idea that is correct and usable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

begin a new chapter

Uses "begin" instead of "commence", a more common synonym.

start a new chapter

Replaces "commence" with "start", offering a more informal and frequently used alternative.

embark on a new chapter

Substitutes "commence" with "embark", implying a journey or undertaking.

initiate a new phase

Changes both "commence" and "chapter" to "initiate" and "phase", respectively, focusing on the beginning of a new period.

kick off a new stage

Employs "kick off" and "stage" for a more casual and dynamic tone.

usher in a new era

Replaces "chapter" with "era", suggesting a broader and more significant change.

set forth on a new path

Uses "set forth" instead of "commence" and "path" instead of "chapter", evoking a sense of direction and progress.

open a new door

Offers a more metaphorical expression, implying new opportunities and possibilities.

turn over a new leaf

An idiomatic expression suggesting a fresh start with improved behavior or attitude.

make a fresh start

A simpler and more direct way of expressing the beginning of something new.

FAQs

What does "commence a new chapter" mean?

The phrase "commence a new chapter" means to begin a new phase, period, or stage in one's life, career, or in a particular project. It implies a significant change or turning point.

What can I say instead of "commence a new chapter"?

You can use alternatives such as "begin a new chapter", "start a new chapter", or "embark on a new chapter" depending on the desired level of formality.

Is it better to say "begin a new chapter" or "commence a new chapter"?

"Begin a new chapter" is generally more common and less formal. "Commence a new chapter" is more formal and might be suitable in specific contexts where a sophisticated tone is desired.

When is it appropriate to use "commence a new chapter"?

It's appropriate to use "commence a new chapter" when you want to emphasize the beginning of something important in a slightly formal or elevated tone. It works well in speeches, formal writing, or when marking significant life transitions.