gave a start

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gave a start" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a sudden reaction of surprise or alarm. Example: "She gave a start when she heard the loud crash outside her window."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Suddenly, he gave a start.

The New Yorker

Again, Ms. Welch gave a start.

The New York Times

Suddenly my veteran friend gave a start.

The Guardian

Then, with a mysterious smile, she gave a start and ran off along the shore.

The New Yorker

"ENO in the Jonas era gave a start to a lot of young directors and designers.

The Guardian - Music

His group, Drew Associates, gave a start to filmmakers like D. A. Pennebaker and Albert and David Maysles.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

U.S. officials say they plan to ask about reports that the southern rebel group, the Sudan People's Liberation Army, gave a start-up firm, White Nile Ltd., an oil concession that had been earmarked by the government for another company.

The Washington Post

Given a start state, it can find an optimal solution without evaluating the entire state space.

Artificial Intelligence

He should be given a start no later than Game 3.

The New York Times

Fraser Forster 6 Given a start because 'it was his turn', said Roy Hodgson.

The Guardian - Sport

After excitation by the laser pulse, one photon can be emitted and give a start pulse.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing that someone provides assistance or opportunity to someone, use the alternative phrase 'gave a boost', 'gave an opportunity' or 'gave assistance'.

Common error

Ensure the context clearly indicates what caused the person to "give a start". Ambiguity can make the sentence confusing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gave a start" functions as a verb phrase describing a sudden, involuntary reaction to something unexpected. It often implies surprise, alarm, or shock. Ludwig AI provides several examples illustrating this usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "gave a start" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe a sudden reaction of surprise or alarm. Ludwig AI analysis reveals that it is most frequently found in News & Media, Science, and Wiki contexts, indicating a neutral to slightly informal register. While there are several alternative phrases, such as "jumped with surprise" and "flinched in shock", each carries slightly different connotations. When using "gave a start", ensure the context clearly identifies the cause of the reaction to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

jumped with surprise

Focuses on the physical reaction of jumping, emphasizing surprise.

flinched in shock

Highlights the involuntary movement of flinching, emphasizing shock.

started involuntarily

Emphasizes the lack of conscious control over the reaction.

was startled

A passive construction focusing on the state of being startled.

showed surprise

A more general expression indicating the manifestation of surprise.

initiated

Focuses on the action of beginning something, losing the element of surprise.

commenced

A more formal term for beginning, without the surprise element.

launched

Implies a more deliberate and planned start.

inaugurated

Signifies a formal or official start.

instigated

Suggests initiating something, often with a negative connotation.

FAQs

What does it mean to say someone "gave a start"?

Saying someone "gave a start" means they reacted suddenly, usually due to surprise or alarm. It implies a physical or emotional jolt in response to something unexpected.

What can I say instead of "gave a start"?

You can use alternatives like "jumped with surprise", "flinched in shock", or "was startled" depending on the context.

Is "gave a start" formal or informal?

"Gave a start" is suitable for neutral and informal contexts. In more formal writing, consider using a more precise synonym that reflects the specific type of reaction.

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

Use "gave a start" to describe a character's reaction to a sudden event. For example, "She gave a start when the door suddenly slammed shut."