not commence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not commence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you want to indicate that something will not start or begin. Example: "The meeting will not commence until all participants are present."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The American Interstate Highway System was created in 1944, though construction did not commence until 1956.

Journal of Transport Geography

The slowdown did not commence until 1 33 remained on the clock.

The New York Times - Sports

Do not commence a nap when a blood relation older than you is addressing you directly.

The New Yorker

But Emanuel Stern, Hartz's president, said work would not commence until tenants are signed.

The New York Times

The cleanup, which could not commence until hostilities ceased, began on August 15.

Encyclopedia Britannica

However, laboratory operations should not commence until supervised by another trained member of the lab.

Princeton University

The review of your application will not commence until this step has been completed.

Columbia University

We further required the Soviets to agree that such deliveries should not commence for two years.

Yale University

Students should not commence work until they have received information on how they will be paid.

Princeton University

Program test operations may not commence prior to issuance of staff approval.

Cornell University

Klopp's team started without their Germany internationals and do not commence their Bundesliga campaign until 23 August.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "not commence", ensure the context aligns with the formal tone of the word "commence". Consider simpler alternatives like "not start" or "not begin" for less formal situations.

Common error

Avoid using "not commence" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "not start" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not commence" functions as a negative verb phrase, indicating the postponement or absence of initiation. It is frequently used to describe situations where an action or process is being withheld or has been delayed. Ludwig provides numerous examples of its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Academia

25%

Science

22%

Less common in

Wiki

11%

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "not commence" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, as confirmed by Ludwig. It functions as a negative verb phrase, indicating that something will not begin, start, or initiate. While it's suitable for formal, academic, scientific, and professional contexts, simpler alternatives may be preferred in casual settings. The most common contexts for its use are News & Media, Academia, and Science. When writing, be mindful of the formal tone and consider whether a simpler alternative like "not begin" or "not start" might be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not begin

Replaces "commence" with the more common synonym "begin".

not start

Uses "start" as a simpler alternative to "commence".

not initiate

Substitutes "commence" with "initiate", maintaining a formal tone.

not get underway

Replaces "not commence" with an idiomatic expression indicating the start of something.

not kick off

Uses the informal phrase "kick off" instead of "commence".

not come into effect

Focuses on the idea of something not becoming operational or valid.

not be implemented

Highlights the lack of implementation instead of the start.

not be launched

Emphasizes the absence of a launch or official beginning.

not take effect

Similar to "not come into effect", but with a slightly different emphasis.

not materialize

Shifts the focus to whether something will actually happen or come into being.

FAQs

What does "not commence" mean?

The phrase "not commence" means something will "not start", begin, or initiate. It indicates that an action or process will not be set in motion.

When is it appropriate to use "not commence"?

It is appropriate to use "not commence" in formal or professional contexts where a more elevated tone is desired. In everyday conversation, simpler terms like "not begin" or "not start" are often preferred.

What are some alternatives to "not commence"?

Alternatives to "not commence" include "not begin", "not start", "not initiate", and "not get underway". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is "not commence" grammatically correct?

Yes, "not commence" is grammatically correct. It follows standard English grammar rules and is widely used in various forms of writing. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.