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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
commenced to develop
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "commenced to develop" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward to some readers.
It can be used in formal contexts where you want to indicate the beginning of a development process. Example: "The company commenced to develop a new software application to improve user experience."
Science
News & Media
Alternative expressions(1)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
60 human-written examples
In spite of the limitations of the instrumentation for imaging at the time, we commenced a programme to develop SPECT quantification believing this to be a highly desirable characteristic for a cross-sectional radionuclide imaging technology.
Science
The film's editing started before shooting even commenced, in order to develop the characters' screens — for example, editors took screenshots of iMessage and Skype windows.
News & Media
This program commenced in 2001 to develop resources in transgenic and knockout mouse models based on single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in human environmentally responsive genes.
The wolves commenced to sing.
News & Media
Then he commenced to pace.
News & Media
In this the buffaloes commenced to feed.
Academia
I commenced to perambulate away, but I felt so awful.
News & Media
The search has commenced to find this year's culinary connoisseurs.
News & Media
She now commenced to practise her husband's precepts.
News & Media
"Work has commenced to engage with ship builders.
News & Media
I commenced to walk backward...
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Consider using more common alternatives like "began to develop" or "started developing" for clarity and readability in most contexts.
Common error
Avoid using "commenced to develop" in informal or conversational writing, as it can sound stilted or overly formal. Opt for simpler alternatives unless a formal tone is specifically desired.
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
3.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "commenced to develop" functions as a purpose connector, indicating the start of a process aimed at creation or improvement. While grammatically sound, Ludwig indicates that it carries a level of formality that may not be suitable for all contexts.
Frequent in
Science
40%
News & Media
30%
Formal & Business
10%
Less common in
Academia
5%
Encyclopedias
5%
Wiki
5%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "commenced to develop" is a grammatically acceptable way to express the beginning of a process of creation or improvement. However, Ludwig indicates that its formality can make it less suitable for everyday use. More common and accessible alternatives include "began to develop" or "started developing". While the phrase appears across various sources, its frequency is relatively low, and it tends to appear in science and news media. Therefore, writers should consider the context and audience when choosing whether to use "commenced to develop" or opt for a more straightforward alternative.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
began developing
Replaces "commenced" with "began", offering a more common and less formal alternative.
started to develop
Similar to "began developing", "started to develop" is more conversational and straightforward.
initiated development of
This alternative is more formal, emphasizing the start of a development process.
set about developing
Suggests a determined or intentional start to a development process.
undertook the development of
This phrase is highly formal and emphasizes taking on the responsibility for the development.
embarked on developing
"Embarked on" implies a significant or adventurous start to the development.
proceeded to develop
Suggests moving forward with a development plan.
moved to develop
Suggests a transition towards focusing on development.
launched the development of
Emphasizes the formal beginning or unveiling of a development project.
set in motion the development of
This phrase suggests a more complex or multi-stage initiation of development.
FAQs
What does "commenced to develop" mean?
The phrase "commenced to develop" means to begin the process of creating or improving something. It's a somewhat formal way of saying /s/began+to+develop or /s/started+to+develop.
Is "commenced to develop" grammatically correct?
Yes, "commenced to develop" is grammatically correct, but it can sound formal or even archaic to some modern readers. The use of a simpler phrase like /s/began+to+develop might be preferable in many contexts.
What are some alternatives to "commenced to develop"?
Some alternatives to "commenced to develop" include /s/began+developing, /s/started+to+develop, /s/initiated+development+of, or /s/set+about+developing. The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.
When is it appropriate to use "commenced to develop"?
The phrase "commenced to develop" might be appropriate in formal documents, academic papers, or other contexts where a more elevated tone is desired. However, in most everyday writing, simpler alternatives are usually preferred.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
3.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested