let us start with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'let us start with' is a correct and usable expression in written English.
It is commonly used to denote the start of a process or discussion, and is often used to introduce a topic. For example, "Let us start with a discussion of the rise in housing prices across the country."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Let us start with history.

The New York Times

So let us start with the positive.

Independent

Let us start with something easy.

The Guardian - Music

Let us start with the Democrats.

The Guardian - Opinion

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 the most important fact.

The Guardian - Opinion

Let us start with a few immediate, practical steps.

The Guardian - Opinion

Let us start with the immediate geopolitical threat.

The Guardian - Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

(26) Let us start with the hydrodynamic contribution.

Computational Astrophysics and Cosmology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting multiple points, "let us start with" works well to introduce the first item while implying that others will follow.

Common error

Avoid starting every paragraph or section with phrases like "let us start with". Vary your sentence structure to keep your writing engaging and prevent monotony.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "let us start with" functions as an introductory phrase, signaling the commencement of a discussion, argument, or explanation. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's a common way to guide the audience to the initial point.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

39%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "let us start with" is a grammatically correct and very common introductory phrase used to signal the beginning of a discussion, explanation, or process. Ludwig confirms its usability across a range of contexts, particularly in science and news media. While versatile, it's important to avoid overuse and consider alternative phrases like "to begin with" or "first of all" to maintain writing engagement. Remember that, while 'let's start with' is also acceptable, it's more informal. This phrase serves as a guidepost, directing the audience toward the initial focus of the material presented.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

let's begin with

A more conversational and informal alternative, replacing "us start" with "'s begin".

to begin with

Focuses on initiating a discussion or process, similar to "let us start with" but lacks the collaborative tone.

we should start by

Highlights the action of starting, similar to "let us start with", but with slightly more emphasis on obligation.

we can begin by

Mirrors the collaborative nature of "let us start with" while highlighting the action of beginning.

first of all

Emphasizes the order of points being presented, implying a sequence.

initially

Highlights the starting point in time or sequence, offering a slightly more formal tone.

as a starting point

Suggests a foundation for further discussion or action.

first and foremost

Stresses the paramount importance of the initial point.

in the first place

Indicates a primary consideration or argument, often used to emphasize importance.

to commence with

Offers a more formal and ceremonial tone, suitable for official settings.

FAQs

What is the meaning of "let us start with"?

The phrase "let us start with" is used to introduce the initial point or step in a discussion, explanation, or process. It signals the beginning and invites the audience to focus on what's coming first.

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

You can use "let us start with" to introduce a topic, for example, "Let us start with the basics of project management."

What can I say instead of "let us start with"?

You can use alternatives like "to begin with", "first of all", or "initially" depending on the context.

Is it "let us start with" or "let's start with"?

Both "let us start with" and "let's start with" are correct. "Let's start with" is a contraction of "let us start with" and is more informal.