it started for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it started for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate the beginning of an event or situation that is relevant to someone or something. Example: "It started for me when I first discovered my passion for painting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Under Armour's newly designed line, with compression shorts, a sports bra, shorts, footwear and other training gear, is being introduced Wednesday with a campaign called "Protect This House I Will," which builds on the company's successful we'll-tough-it-out-together theme that it started for its men's gear.

The New York Times

It started for Carole with cheese.

Independent

"They really got it started for Ohio State".

The New York Times - Sports

"It started for me as a little kid," she said.

The New York Times

That's how it started for me, and I haven't stopped playing, watching, and loving soccer since.

The New Yorker

Punk rock and electronic [music] was when it started for us.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

The problem is none of it starts for four years.

The Guardian

We'll be ready when it starts for real, though.

The New York Times - Sports

When and where did it start for you?

The Guardian

We've got training the rest of this week and then it starts for real.

The New York Times

I'm just trying to illustrate how innocently it starts for so many, including myself.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it started for" to personalize the origin of an event, idea, or trend, showing its relevance to a specific person or group.

Common error

Avoid using "it started for" when the subject is unclear or when the sentence lacks a clear connection to the person or entity for whom it started. Always ensure the context provides clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it started for" functions as an introductory phrase, setting the stage for a personal narrative or explanation of how something began in relation to a specific individual or entity. Ludwig provides numerous examples of its usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it started for" is a versatile introductory phrase used to describe the beginning of an event or experience from a personal perspective. Ludwig's analysis confirms its common usage, primarily in News & Media and Science contexts, as it provides context or background to a particular narrative. While generally acceptable in neutral to informal settings, more formal alternatives might be preferred in academic or scientific writing. The phrase is grammatically correct and is often used to illustrate how something began in relation to a specific individual or entity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it all began with

Highlights that an entire sequence of events stemmed from a single point.

it commenced with

Indicates the starting point of an event or process, focusing on the action that initiates it.

it was initiated by

Focuses on the agent or entity that started something.

it originated with

Emphasizes the source or initial cause of something.

it was sparked by

Implies a sudden or forceful beginning.

it had its genesis in

Suggests a more formal or significant origin.

the impetus came from

Highlights the driving force behind the start of something.

it took root with

Implies a gradual or organic beginning.

the seeds were sown by

Suggests an indirect or less obvious beginning.

the groundwork was laid by

Implies a foundation or preparation that preceded the start.

FAQs

How can I use "it started for" in a sentence?

Use "it started for" to describe the beginning of an experience, interest, or process from a specific person's or group's perspective. For example, "It started for me when I attended that workshop".

What's a more formal alternative to "it started for"?

For more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "it originated with" or "it commenced with" to maintain a professional tone.

Is "it started for me" redundant?

While "it started for" already implies a personal perspective, adding "me" can sometimes add emphasis, making it clear whose experience is being discussed. However, consider whether the "me" is truly necessary for clarity.

Can "it started for" be used in all types of writing?

While generally acceptable, "it started for" is best suited for informal or neutral contexts. In highly formal writing, opt for more sophisticated alternatives that maintain a higher level of decorum.