it all started with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it all started with" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use it to begin a sentence when you are discussing the origin or beginning of something. For example: "It all started with a simple idea that grew into something much bigger than I ever expected."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

IT ALL started with the video recorder.

The Economist

IT ALL started with the word "normal".

The Economist

It all started with a blind date.

The New York Times

It all started with the Sex Pistols.

The New York Times - Magazine

It all started with celebrity endorsements.

The New York Times

"It all started with a joke.

Independent

It all started with Enid Blyton.

Independent

It all started with some homework.

The New Yorker

It all started with a poem.

The New York Times - Sports

IT all started with grasshopper pie.

The New York Times

It all started with a Twitter posting.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it all started with", ensure that the subsequent noun or event clearly and directly relates to the eventual outcome you are describing for maximum impact.

Common error

Avoid using "it all started with" if the initial event has only a tenuous or unclear connection to the main subject of your narrative. A weak connection can confuse readers.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it all started with" functions as an introductory phrase, setting the stage for a narrative or explanation. It indicates the origin or beginning of a particular event, situation, or process. According to Ludwig, this is a correct and usable part of a sentence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Reference

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it all started with" serves as a common introductory phrase used to establish the genesis of a story or explanation. Ludwig AI validates it as grammatically correct and widely applicable, particularly in News & Media. When employing this phrase, ensure a clear connection between the starting point and the eventual outcome. While versatile, consider more formal alternatives for academic or professional contexts. The phrase's frequent usage underscores its effectiveness in setting the stage for narratives across diverse domains.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it originated from

Emphasizes the point of origin or where something began.

the trigger was

Pinpoints a specific event that initiated a series of actions or a particular situation.

the root of it was

Focuses on the fundamental cause or starting point of a situation.

it sparked from

Suggests a sudden or dramatic beginning, often implying a catalyst for change.

it commenced with

A more formal way of saying something began, highlighting the start of a process or event.

it all traces back to

Highlights the ultimate source or origin after a series of events or developments.

its inception began with

Highlights the initial stage or establishment of something.

the precursor was

Indicates an event or development that came before and influenced what followed.

the foundation was laid with

Emphasizes the initial steps or groundwork that led to subsequent developments.

the genesis was

Uses a more elevated and literary term to denote the beginning or creation of something.

FAQs

How can I use "it all started with" in a sentence?

Use "it all started with" to introduce the initial event or cause that led to a series of subsequent events or a specific outcome. For example, "It all started with a simple idea" or "It all started with a phone call".

What are some alternatives to "it all started with"?

You can use alternatives like "it originated from", "it commenced with", or "the genesis was" depending on the context.

Is "it all started with" formal or informal?

"It all started with" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though more formal alternatives exist for academic or professional writing.

What's the difference between "it all started with" and "it all begins with"?

"It all started with" refers to a past event that initiated a sequence, while "it all begins with" suggests an ongoing or habitual process starting from a specific point.