make a strong start

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make a strong start" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when encouraging someone to begin a task or project with enthusiasm and determination. Example: "To ensure the success of our new initiative, we need to make a strong start in the first quarter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

As United have the first leg of a Champions League qualifier in mid-August this accentuates the need to make a strong start.

The Guardian - Sport

After Barcelona laid down a marker with a ruthless 6-2 win at home to Real Betis on Saturday, the pressure was on Real to make a strong start themselves.

The Guardian - Sport

A good school is a place where children learn enough worthwhile things to make a strong start in life, where a foundation is laid that supports later learning, and where children develop the desire to learn more.

The Washington Post

"Obviously we have injuries to Tim Krul and Rob Elliot which could be difficult for us in the first part of the season, so it was important to strengthen in this area to be sure we can make a strong start in the Championship".

The Guardian - Sport

I was a little bit unfortunate in some points but I definitely didn't take my chances and he did, so he deserved it". Djokovic's best hope of taking advantage of his greater experience was surely to make a strong start but instead, it was Berdych, in just his second grand slam semi-final but also his second in a month, who looked more assured.

The Guardian - Sport

He has played seven games for the Reds, and helped the club make a strong start to the new season.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

He has made a strong start.

The Economist

These two outsiders have made a strong start.

The New Yorker

I think that Labour's policy review has made a strong start in this direction.

The Guardian - Opinion

The dashing French prime minister had made a strong start in office.

The Economist

But what you get out of the box makes a strong start on that process.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context and audience; while generally acceptable, "make a strong start" might be replaced with a more formal or impactful alternative depending on the setting.

Common error

While "make a strong start" is acceptable, frequent use can make writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms such as "establish a firm foundation" or "begin auspiciously" to add depth and sophistication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make a strong start" functions as a verb phrase, often acting as an idiomatic expression. It indicates the commencement of an activity or project with significant effort and intent for success, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "make a strong start" is a grammatically sound and commonly used idiom, particularly in news and business contexts. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms that it's employed to convey the importance of beginning an endeavor with significant effort and determination. While versatile, consider alternative phrases like "get off to a flying start" or "begin auspiciously" to avoid repetition. To use the phrase effectively, remember its proactive and ambitious undertones.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

get off to a flying start

This emphasizes immediate and impressive success at the beginning.

begin auspiciously

This highlights a promising or favorable start, suggesting good fortune.

kick off successfully

Similar to "get off to a flying start", but with a more informal tone.

establish a firm foundation

Focuses on creating a solid and stable base for future progress.

set the ball rolling effectively

Emphasizes initiating action and maintaining momentum from the outset.

launch with determination

Highlights the commitment and resolve behind the initial action.

commence vigorously

A more formal way of saying to start with great energy and effort.

make an impressive debut

Focuses on the initial public appearance or performance being noteworthy.

institute a powerful beginning

A more forceful and impactful way of indicating a strong start.

initiate a robust commencement

Emphasizes the strength and healthiness of the starting phase.

FAQs

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

You can use "make a strong start" to describe beginning something with enthusiasm and determination, such as, "The team needs to "make a strong start" to the season if they want to win the championship."

What are some alternatives to "make a strong start"?

Alternatives include "get off to a flying start", "begin auspiciously", or "kick off successfully", each offering slightly different nuances.

Is it better to say "make a strong start" or "have a strong start"?

"Make a strong start" is generally preferred as it emphasizes the action of initiating something with strength. "Have a strong start" is less common and might sound awkward in some contexts.

What's the difference between "make a strong start" and "ensure a strong start"?

"Make a strong start" implies actively creating a positive beginning, while "ensure a strong start" suggests taking steps to guarantee a successful beginning. They both have similar implications but the nuance is different.