commence work on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "commence work on" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating the beginning of a task or project. Example: "We will commence work on the new marketing strategy next week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

He died while about to commence work on the cupola of the Hôtel des Invalides.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"We believe it is important that these measures remain in place to help those at risk of repossession, and that there is a real need to commence work on implementing a long-term support programme".

The Guardian - Money

Reiss: No Urgency among Parties 8. (C) In his discussion with the Taoiseach (and in separate meetings, per paras below), Special Envoy Reiss reported from his May 19 discussions at Stormont that he sensed no urgency among the parties, particularly the DUP, to commence work on an Executive deal.

The Guardian

In the next decade, NASA would commence work on a heavy-lift launcher capable of launching a whopping 100 tons, which would essentially replace the shuttle orbiter with a cargo carrier.

Science Magazine

Chair of the Dreamland Trust, Nick Laister, said: "With all the technical work now complete and a substantial part of the funding in place, the acquisition of the site by the council will allow the trust to commence work on the implementation of what is a key project for the regeneration of Margate".

BBC

The Sugababes travelled to the United States in April 2009, to commence work on their seventh studio album, Sweet 7.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Circuit of Wales added that it planned to commence work on-site in 2015 and to host the British leg of the MotoGP championship in Wales as soon as phase one of the development is completed.

BBC

Once you commence working on something and then walk away, you continue to work on whatever it is.

Huffington Post

I know many people also who will be commencing work on 27 July who have had absolutely no scheduled on-site training.

The Guardian - Sport

But by fall I had gotten myself sufficiently together to re-enroll, and I soon commenced work on a documentary project that led me back to Margaret.

The New York Times

Michel Barnier, the commission's chief Brexit negotiator, has made a low-key start to his role, after commencing work on 1 October.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

While "commence work on" is correct, consider your audience. In many contexts, simpler alternatives like "start work on" or "begin working on" are more appropriate. Use "commence" when a formal tone is desired.

Common error

Avoid using "commence work on" in informal settings. Overusing formal language can make your writing sound stilted or unnatural. Choose simpler words when possible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "commence work on" functions as a verb phrase indicating the beginning of an action. It introduces the start of a task, project, or process. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a valid and usable phrase in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "commence work on" is a grammatically correct phrase used to indicate the beginning of an activity. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is correct and usable in written English. While acceptable, it carries a formal tone and is not as frequently used as simpler alternatives like "start work on" or "begin working on". Its usage is most common in news media and encyclopedic contexts. When writing, consider your audience and the desired level of formality before choosing "commence work on" over its more common synonyms. Always aim for clarity and appropriateness in your language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

begin working on

Replaces "commence" with the more common "begin", offering a slightly less formal tone.

start to work on

Uses "start" as a synonym for "commence", providing a more direct and informal alternative.

start working on

A simpler and more frequently used alternative, replacing "commence" with "start".

begin to address

Focuses on the initial action of tackling a problem or issue, similar to starting work.

get to work on

An idiomatic alternative that suggests a more active and engaged start to the task.

set about working on

Implies a deliberate and organized approach to beginning the task.

initiate development of

Highlights the beginning of a development process, suitable for projects or products.

embark on the task of

Adds a sense of undertaking and commitment to starting the work.

undertake the work of

Emphasizes the formal acceptance of responsibility for the work.

kick off the project

A more colloquial way to describe the beginning of a project, often used in business contexts.

FAQs

What does "commence work on" mean?

The phrase "commence work on" means to begin working on something. It's a slightly more formal way of saying "start work on" or "begin work on".

Is it better to say "commence work on" or "start work on"?

While both phrases are grammatically correct, "start work on" is generally preferred in most contexts due to its simplicity and ease of understanding. "Commence work on" is suitable for more formal or official situations.

What can I say instead of "commence work on"?

You can use alternatives like "start work on", "begin work on", or "start working on" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "commence work on"?

Use "commence work on" in formal reports, official correspondence, or when addressing a professional audience. Simpler alternatives are better for casual conversations and informal writing.