make a start

USAGE SUMMARY

"make a start" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you need to suggest that there is something that needs to be started soon or the beginning of a process. Example sentence: "Let's make a start on the project so we can meet the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We think he'll make a start.

The New York Times - Sports

"I make a start, even if it's impossible".

The New Yorker

"I wanted to make a start here in Greece.

The Guardian

For new times' sake let's make a start on this.

The Guardian - Books

We hope to make a start in rebuilding it.

The Guardian - Opinion

The Margherita, which was cruising round since nine o'clock, did not make a start.

The New York Times

"They're probably a bit much for me," he said, "but you've got to make a start".

The New Yorker

"I'm a very proud Englishman, so to make a start like that was fantastic," he said.

Independent

"All I know is that I have to make a start.

Independent

They could make a start by asking a member of the other party over for dinner.

The Economist

The Guardian could make a start and set an example for others to follow.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "make a start" when you want to emphasize the act of initiating something, especially when there might be some hesitation or difficulty involved in getting going.

Common error

While "make a start" is perfectly acceptable, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Consider using more concise synonyms like "begin" or "initiate", especially in formal contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make a start" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the beginning of an action or process. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's a correct and usable phrase in written English. It often implies an intention to initiate something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

31%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "make a start" is a versatile and frequently used expression that signifies the commencement of an action or process. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While it can be used in various contexts, it's particularly common in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business settings. For those seeking alternative phrasing, options like "begin", "get started", and "commence" offer similar meanings with subtle differences in formality and emphasis. Remember to consider the context and audience when choosing the most appropriate phrasing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make a beginning

Similar in meaning, but places emphasis on the noun form of "beginning".

begin

This is a more concise and direct synonym, omitting the "make a" portion of the original phrase.

get started

A more conversational and informal alternative.

commence

A more formal synonym for "begin", suitable for professional contexts.

initiate

Implies a more deliberate and planned beginning than "make a start".

set about

Focuses on the action of preparing to begin something.

kick off

An idiomatic expression that suggests an energetic beginning.

launch into

Implies starting something with enthusiasm or vigor.

embark on

Suggests beginning a journey or endeavor, often something significant.

take the first step

Highlights the initial action in a longer process.

FAQs

How can I use "make a start" in a sentence?

You can use "make a start" to describe the beginning of an action or process. For example: "Let's "make a start" on cleaning the house".

What can I say instead of "make a start"?

You can use alternatives like "begin", "get started", or "commence" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "make a start" or "begin"?

Both "make a start" and "begin" are correct, but "begin" is generally more concise and formal. "Make a start" emphasizes the effort of initiating the action.

What's the difference between "make a start" and "get started"?

"Make a start" and "get started" are very similar, but "get started" is often more informal and conversational.