it is just beginning

USAGE SUMMARY

The sentence "it is just beginning" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it when speaking or writing about something that is about to start, or has just started. For example: "This is only the first chapter of the book; it is just beginning."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

For them, the day is coming to its end; for others, it is just beginning.

The New York Times

"Cider House" promises to be one of the films helped most by today's nominations, since it is just beginning its wide theatrical release.

The New York Times

It is the last will and testament of the French master, who died in 1992, and it is just beginning to make its way in the world.

The New Yorker

BofA's defenders, notably its own management, contend that it has a uniquely strong and diversified franchise (at least in America) and that it is just beginning to exploit its reach, without depending on any one product.It is not clear who has the better of this argument.

The Economist

"Snapchat is one of the most innovative social networking platforms in the world and we believe it is just beginning to surpass its true potential".

TechCrunch

It is just beginning to ramp up its mobile advertising revenue, which was 30 percent of its overall global ad revenue in the first quarter.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

It's just beginning.

The New York Times

In fact, it was just beginning.

The New York Times - Sports

"It's just beginning," he types.

The New Yorker

"It's just beginning for the train operator".

The New York Times

It was just beginning by German submarines, however.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In persuasive writing, deploy the phrase to underscore the potential impact or scope of unfolding changes.

Common error

Avoid using "it is just beginning" when there is little evidence of actual progress or potential. Overstating the initial phase can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is just beginning" functions as a comment or observation indicating that something is in its initial phase. Ludwig confirms that it is correct and usable in written English. Examples show its versatility in describing the nascent stage of various phenomena.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is just beginning" is a grammatically correct and versatile expression used to denote the initial phase of an event, process, or situation. As indicated by Ludwig, it is suitable for various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science, where it serves to set expectations, create anticipation, or highlight future potential. While widely applicable, it is important to avoid overstating progress in the early stages. Alternatives include "it has only just begun" and "it is in its infancy", each offering a slightly different nuance. This phrase appears frequently in reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian, affirming its consistent and authoritative usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it has only just begun

Stresses the recency of the start, often used to imply significant future developments.

it is only starting

Focuses on the commencement of an action or event, implying a longer duration ahead.

it is in the early stages

Highlights that the process is still developing and has not reached a mature point.

we are just getting started

Indicates the very beginning of a process and suggests an enthusiastic tone.

it is in its infancy

Emphasizes the very early stage of development, suggesting potential but current immaturity.

the opening stages are now

Highlights that the initial stages are occurring now, implying more phases to follow.

the start has only just happened

Highlights the newness of the start, providing more emphasis on the starting point.

it is at the dawn of

Suggests the beginning of a new era or significant development.

it is merely the prelude

Implies that what has happened so far is only an introduction to something more substantial.

it is only the tip of the iceberg

Indicates that the visible part is small compared to the larger, hidden part that is yet to come.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it is just beginning" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases such as "it is in its nascent stages", "it is only commencing", or "the process has only just begun". These alternatives offer a similar meaning while maintaining a professional register.

What does "it has only just begun" imply compared to "it is just beginning"?

While both phrases indicate the initial phase of something, "it has only just begun" emphasizes the recency and potential longevity of the process, compared to "it is just beginning".

Is "it is only beginning" a suitable alternative to "it is just beginning"?

"It is only beginning" is a suitable alternative, but "it is just beginning" may convey a stronger sense of immediacy and potential. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "it is just beginning" in writing?

Use "it is just beginning" when you want to emphasize that a process, trend, or activity is in its early stages and is expected to develop further. It is appropriate in contexts ranging from news reporting to scientific analysis.