it is starting

USAGE SUMMARY

The sentence "It is starting" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase can be used whenever something is beginning, and is usually followed by more details about what is starting. For example, "It is starting to rain, so I think we should head inside".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Now, it is starting a performance series in its theater.

The New York Times - Arts

It is starting already.

The Economist

Maybe it is starting to.

The Economist

It is starting to be marketable.

The Guardian - Tech

But it is starting to try.

The Economist

It is starting to resort to force.

The Economist

But it is starting to feel comfortable".

The New Yorker

It is starting to frustrate fans.

The New York Times - Sports

"It is starting to fill in.

The New York Times

Yet it is starting to increase.

The Economist

But it is starting to be studied.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is starting" when you want to indicate the initial phase of an event, process, or change. Be clear about what exactly "it" refers to in your sentence to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "it is starting" without a clear reference to what "it" is. Ensure your reader knows what is beginning to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is starting" primarily functions as a declarative statement indicating the commencement of an event, process, or state. Ludwig provides numerous examples where it introduces the beginning of various occurrences, aligning with its function to denote initiation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is starting" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to denote the commencement or initial phase of an event or process. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread usage in various contexts, particularly in news and media. While generally neutral in tone, more formal alternatives may be preferable in certain academic or professional settings. Understanding its function and purpose allows for effective communication about ongoing developments and emerging trends.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is beginning

Uses "beginning" as a direct synonym for "starting".

it is commencing

Replaces "starting" with a more formal synonym, "commencing".

it is initiating

Substitutes "starting" with "initiating", suggesting a more deliberate start.

it is getting underway

Replaces the entire phrase with an idiomatic expression indicating commencement.

it is taking off

Uses a more figurative expression suggesting a rapid or successful start.

it is emerging

Implies a gradual start, as something comes into view or becomes apparent.

it is unfolding

Suggests that a series of events are starting to happen.

it is materializing

Indicates that something is starting to become real or concrete.

it is dawning

Implies the beginning of a new era, understanding, or awareness.

it is kicking off

An informal way of saying something is starting.

FAQs

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

You can use "it is starting" to describe the beginning of an action or state. For example, "it is starting to rain" or "it is starting to make sense".

What are some alternatives to "it is starting"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "it is beginning", "it is commencing", or "it is getting underway".

Is "it is starting" formal or informal?

"It is starting" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives like "it is commencing" may be preferred in certain situations.

What's the difference between "it is starting" and "it has started"?

"It is starting" indicates that something is in the process of beginning, while "it has started" indicates that something has already begun. The former emphasizes the initial phase, while the latter emphasizes the completed action of starting.