it began with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it began with" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce the starting point of a story, event, or situation. Example: "It began with a simple idea that transformed into a groundbreaking invention."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

It began with T.R.

The New Yorker

It began with knives.

The New York Times - Food

It began with words.

Independent

It began with an earthquake.

The New Yorker

It began with a sneer.

The New Yorker

It began with the South.

The New Yorker

It began with the graffiti.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

It begins with desolation.

The New York Times - Arts

It begins with dislocation.

The New York Times

It begins with drought.

Independent

It begins with great promise.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it began with", ensure that the subsequent information directly relates to and logically follows from the initial event or condition you've introduced.

Common error

Avoid shifting verb tenses after using "it began with". If you start in the past, maintain past tense consistency to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it began with" functions as an introductory phrase to indicate the starting point of a sequence of events, a process, or a narrative. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Science

6%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it began with" is a versatile and grammatically sound construction used to introduce the starting point of various narratives, events, or processes. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is common across numerous contexts, particularly in news and media. When writing with the phrase, be sure to maintain tense consistency and provide context to avoid confusion. Consider alternatives like "it started with" or "it originated in" for slight variations in meaning, yet keep in mind that the phrase "it began with" effectively sets the stage for a story or explanation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it originated in

Focuses on the origin point, often used for places or concepts.

it started out as

Emphasizes the initial form or state of something before it developed.

the genesis was

A more formal and literary way of indicating the origin or beginning.

its roots lie in

Highlights the underlying causes or factors that led to something.

the impetus was

Focuses on the driving force or motivation behind an event or action.

it stemmed from

Indicates that something developed or resulted from a particular source or cause.

the launchpad was

Highlights the starting point that enabled further development or success.

the trigger was

Focuses on the specific event or action that initiated a series of events.

it all commenced with

A more formal way of saying something started, emphasizing the beginning.

the foundation was

Highlights what was the base or groundwork to start building or constructing something.

FAQs

How can I use "it began with" in a sentence?

Use "it began with" to introduce the initial event, action, or situation that led to subsequent developments. For example, "It began with a simple idea that grew into a major project".

What are some alternatives to "it began with"?

Alternatives include "it started with", "it originated in", or "it stemmed from", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is there a more formal way to express "it began with"?

Yes, phrases like "the genesis was" or "it all commenced with" offer a more formal tone, suitable for academic or professional contexts.

Can "it began with" be used to describe abstract concepts?

Yes, "it began with" can be used to describe the origin of abstract concepts, such as "it began with a desire for change" or "it began with a philosophical question".