initiate a process

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "initiate a process" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the beginning or starting of a specific procedure or series of actions. Example: "To improve efficiency, we need to initiate a process for regular feedback from our team members."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This would initiate a process of complementary access and design verification inspections by the IAEA.

The Guardian - Opinion

In that context the I.R.A. leadership will initiate a process that will completely and verifiably put I.R.A. arms beyond use.

The New York Times

Second, they initiate a process in which employees are able to revise and buy into new compact terms.

Harvard Business Review

Mr. Anzevino said the letter directed the applicant to initiate a process in which all the parties consider alternatives.

The New York Times

"In that new context the IRA leadership will initiate a process that will completely and verifiably put IRA arms beyond use".

The Guardian

Instead, they hope nations will agree to a set of shared principles, landmarks and goals and initiate a process to define what it means to be sustainable.

The Guardian

leaders told the minister they had no desire for a separate state and asked him to initiate a process that would bring peace with justice".

The New York Times

The complaint is filed at the NCP, and if the NCP determines that the complaint merits further examination, it will initiate a process to examine the complaint further.

The Guardian

For that reason European leaders are likely to initiate a process that could lead to sanctions, such as cutting off European Union funds, but pursue it cautiously.

The New York Times

He told MPs he had asked NHS England "rapidly to initiate a process evaluation to address barriers to clinically appropriate prescribing [of medicinal cannabis]".

The Guardian

More important, a referral can initiate a process by which individuals are formally recognised as being trafficked and are afforded suitable protection such as access to safe accommodation and other means of support.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you want to convey a formal or official tone, use "initiate a process". It suggests a deliberate and planned beginning, which is suitable for professional and academic writing.

Common error

Avoid using "initiate a process" in informal contexts where simpler alternatives like "start a process" or "begin a process" would be more appropriate. Overly formal language can sound stilted or unnatural in casual conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "initiate a process" functions as a verb phrase, where "initiate" acts as a transitive verb taking "process" as its direct object. It describes the action of starting or setting in motion a particular procedure or series of actions. Ludwig AI confirms this is a common and grammatically correct construction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "initiate a process" is a versatile phrase used to describe the commencement of a procedure or series of actions. Ludwig AI confirms it as grammatically correct and widely used. While it's appropriate for formal and professional contexts, simpler alternatives like "begin a process" or "start a procedure" may be better suited for informal settings. Common sources include news media, scientific publications, and formal business documents. Be mindful of the context and tone when selecting this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

start a procedure

This alternative uses the verb 'start' which is a more common and less formal synonym for 'initiate'.

begin a process

This alternative uses the verb 'begin' which is similar to 'start' but slightly more formal, though still less formal than 'initiate'.

launch a procedure

This alternative uses 'launch' suggesting a more active and public commencement of the process.

commence a process

The verb 'commence' is a formal synonym for 'begin', providing a direct substitution.

trigger a sequence

This suggests a cause-and-effect relationship where one event triggers a series of subsequent events.

set in motion a series of events

This phrase emphasizes the start of a chain reaction or sequence.

establish a routine

Implies setting up a standardized and repeatable set of actions.

instigate action

Focuses on prompting action or a series of actions.

kick off a procedure

This is a more informal and energetic way to describe starting a process.

put in place a system

Implies a more structured and organized beginning to a set of actions.

FAQs

How can I use "initiate a process" in a sentence?

You can use "initiate a process" to describe the beginning of a series of actions, such as "The company will "start a procedure" to improve customer service".

What's a less formal way to say "initiate a process"?

Alternatives like "begin a process" or ""start a procedure"" are less formal options that convey a similar meaning.

Is "initiate a process" the same as "launch a process"?

While similar, "launch a procedure" often implies a more public or significant commencement than "initiate a process".

When is it best to use "initiate a process" rather than "start a process"?

"Initiate a process" is best used in formal or official contexts where a deliberate and planned beginning needs to be emphasized, whereas ""start a procedure"" is more generally applicable.