is starting

USAGE SUMMARY

"is starting" is correct and may be used in written English.
You could use the phrase when introducing something that is beginning to happen. For example, "Summer is starting, which means kids are heading back to school."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Outbox is starting small.

The New York Times

It is starting already.

The Economist

Maybe it is starting to.

The Economist

He is starting cooking classes.

The New York Times

Everyone is starting from scratch".

The New York Times

This is starting to change.

The New York Times

This is starting to happen.

Forbes

Confidence is starting to return.

The Economist

That is starting to change.

The New York Times - Arts

That is starting to happen.

The Economist

That is starting to slip.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is starting" to introduce an action that is currently in progress, emphasizing the initial phase.

Common error

Avoid using "is starting" for events that will begin far in the future; instead, use "will start" or "begins" for greater clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is starting" functions as a present progressive verb phrase, indicating an action that is currently in progress. This aligns with Ludwig AI's assessment of grammatical correctness. Examples show it initiating events or processes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is starting" is a grammatically correct and very common way to express that something is currently beginning. Ludwig AI confirms its validity for use in written English. It's versatile enough for various contexts, from news reporting to academic discussions, though it's most frequently found in News & Media. While it is a simple phrase, consider substituting it with alternatives like "is commencing" or "is getting underway" depending on the level of formality required. Be mindful not to overuse it when referring to events that will start far in the future.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is beginning

This alternative is a direct synonym, offering a simple and interchangeable option.

is commencing

This alternative is a more formal synonym emphasizing the beginning of an event or activity.

is initiating

This alternative highlights the act of setting something in motion or causing it to begin.

is getting underway

This alternative suggests that something is progressing from preparation to active operation.

is kicking off

This alternative provides a more informal and energetic way to express the start of something, often an event.

is launching

This alternative implies a more significant or planned beginning, like a product or campaign.

is setting in motion

This alternative emphasizes the act of causing something to start or become active.

is emerging

This alternative focuses on the gradual appearance or start of something.

is taking shape

This alternative suggests that something is beginning to form or develop.

is coming into being

This alternative emphasizes the start of existence or creation of something.

FAQs

How can I use "is starting" in a sentence?

You can use "is starting" to indicate that an action or process has recently begun. For example, "The presentation "is starting" now" or "The company "is starting" a new initiative".

What's a more formal alternative to "is starting"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "is commencing" or "is initiating". These options are often suitable in professional or academic contexts.

Is there a difference between "is starting" and "is beginning"?

While very similar, "is beginning" is a more general term. "Is starting" often implies a more deliberate or forceful commencement, though they are frequently interchangeable.

What can I say instead of "is starting" to sound more casual?

In informal settings, you could use phrases like "is getting underway" or "is kicking off" to convey a more relaxed tone.