initiate something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "initiate something" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of starting or beginning a process, project, or action. Example: "We need to initiate something to improve our team's communication and collaboration."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

How do you initiate something that you can stay invested in for a significant duration of time?

Cornell University

"I wanted him to know I was interested, but at the same time give him the opportunity to initiate something," she said.

The New York Times - Style

Although many ecologists feared that the material's mixing with the waters of the Danube would initiate something of an environmental catastrophe, the impact on the Danube was low. 5 Famous Border WallsIf you build it, they won't come.

Britannica

Also there's a challenge in trying to shift a sense of temporality – how do you initiate something that you can stay invested in for a significant duration of time?

Cornell University

The scheme -- the fact that something -- if you are permitted to initiate something at any point in time, and it has to be turned in at a certain time, that is the same basic rule that I had in high school with term papers.

The New York Times

Strategy is most needed when things change or when you want to initiate something new.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

It is about time that Israel initiates something on peace".

The New York Times

Shutting companies out of your credit files has traditionally meant initiating something called a credit freeze.

The New York Times

They are also, since the Duke corrects only that action which he himself initiated, something like an inward process of responsible self-knowledge, self-discovery.

The Guardian - Books

Spring cleaning started early this year, with the January release of the Netflix series "Tidying Up With Marie Kondo" initiating something of a national closet-clearing frenzy.

The New York Times

Since the high-profile attacks in Kabul on April 15, in which Taliban suicide bombers and gunmen set siege to the diplomatic quarter and the Parliament for hours and struck in three eastern provinces, NATO and Afghan authorities have initiated something of a full-court press, emphasizing their view that Afghans played a central role in routing the insurgents.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "initiate something", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is being started or begun. Providing specific details about the action or process will enhance clarity for your audience.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "initiate something" can sound overly formal in casual conversations. Consider using simpler alternatives like "start something" or "begin something" to maintain a natural tone in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "initiate something" functions as a verb phrase used to describe the act of beginning or starting a process, action, or project. It's about setting something in motion. Ludwig provides examples showcasing its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "initiate something" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that means to begin or start a process or action. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usefulness. While the phrase is more formal, it is not often found in informal conversation. Its primary use is conveying the commencement of an action or project. For more relaxed situations, consider alternatives like "start something". When using it, make sure your context provides enough clarity of what is being started. According to Ludwig, authoritative sources such as The New York Times and Forbes employ it, lending credibility to its usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

begin something

More general term for starting an action or process.

start something

Common alternative, implying the commencement of an activity or project.

launch something

Suggests a more formal or significant beginning, often used for projects or campaigns.

commence something

A more formal and official term for starting something.

trigger something

Implies setting off a chain of events or reaction.

set in motion something

Emphasizes the initiation of a process that will continue.

kick off something

Informal phrase for starting an event or project, often with enthusiasm.

spark something

Indicates initiating something with a sudden burst of energy or inspiration.

institute something

Implies establishing a new rule, system, or policy.

inaugurate something

A formal term suggesting the start of a significant project or era.

FAQs

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

You can use "initiate something" to describe the beginning of an action, process, or project. For instance, "We need to initiate something to address the communication gaps in our team".

What are some alternatives to "initiate something"?

You can use alternatives like "begin something", "start something", or "launch something" depending on the context.

Is "initiate something" formal or informal?

"Initiate something" is generally considered more formal. In casual settings, simpler alternatives like "start something" might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "initiate something" and "start something"?

While both phrases refer to beginning an action, "initiate something" often implies a more formal or deliberate commencement, whereas "start something" is more general and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.