let us start

USAGE SUMMARY

"Let us start" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to suggest that it is time to begin a task or undertaking. For example, "Let us start our project on designing a new website."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Let us start with history.

The New York Times

So let us start with the positive.

Independent

Let us start at the beginning.

The New York Times - Sports

So let us start with Ms. Didion.

The New York Times

This morning, let us start with politics.

The Guardian - Music

But let us start with Mr. Stabinsky's fabulous hamburger.

The New York Times

Let us start with.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Let us start from the general picture.

Bulletin of Mathematical Sciences

Let us start with the equation.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

Let us start with the additive hai.

Lingua Sinica

Let us start with some propositions.

Fixed Point Theory and Applications

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "let us start" to introduce a new section, topic, or activity, providing a clear signal of initiation.

Common error

Avoid using "let us start" excessively in a passive voice construction. Instead of saying "Let us start by being told...", opt for the active "Let us start by discussing...".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "let us start" serves as an initiator or introducer, signaling the commencement of a discussion, activity, or process. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's a correct and usable phrase. Its function is to guide the audience or reader into the beginning phase of something, as demonstrated in numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

48%

News & Media

38%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "let us start" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that serves as an initiator, signaling the beginning of a discussion, activity, or process. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across varied contexts. Predominantly found in scientific and news media sources, its register is generally neutral to slightly formal. For a more concise and informal option, consider "let's begin". Avoid overuse and passive constructions to maintain clarity and impact. Using "let us start" provides a clear signal that something new is about to commence, setting the stage for what follows.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

let's begin

This alternative is a more concise and informal contraction of "let us start".

let's commence

This alternative is slightly more formal than "let's begin" or "let us start".

we shall begin

This alternative is a more formal and emphatic way of saying "let us start".

we will initiate

This alternative is a more formal and direct way of expressing the start of something.

allow us to begin

This alternative is a polite and formal way of asking for permission to start.

permit us to start

This alternative is a more formal version of "allow us to begin".

it's time to begin

This alternative focuses on the timing aspect of starting something.

we can start now

This alternative emphasizes the possibility and readiness to begin.

we should commence

This alternative suggests a recommendation or suggestion to begin.

time to get started

This alternative is an informal and encouraging way to begin.

FAQs

How can I use "let us start" in a sentence?

You can use "let us start" to introduce a new topic, a series of actions, or the beginning of an explanation. For example, "Let us start by defining the key terms."

What are some alternatives to "let us start"?

Alternatives include "let's begin", "let's commence", or "we shall begin" depending on the context and level of formality.

Is "let us start" formal or informal?

"Let us start" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. The contracted form, "let's start", is more informal.

When should I use "let us start" instead of "let's start"?

Use "let us start" in more formal writing or when you want to emphasize the inclusive nature of the beginning. "Let's start" is suitable for informal contexts.