only the commencement

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "only the commencement" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is just the beginning or the initial stage of a process or event. Example: "This report covers only the commencement of the project, with further details to follow in the next phase."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Are they chasing an illusion that takes authority from tradition alone, or are we still only at the commencement stage of discovery?

The New York Times

Not only is the commencement of these treatments important, but also the weaning process, in order to limit possible side effects resulting from them.

Critical Care

It was only after the commencement of American bombing that the Taliban line was broken and John Lindh fled along with other Taliban troops to Kunduz, 60 miles away.

The Guardian - Opinion

Only at the commencement of his career did Bernini carve gallery sculpture for princely collectors, but the majority of Canova's works belong to this category.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"We are only in the commencement of really studying the underground world," says Badino.

Science Magazine

Portions of six of the seven original reels were used, with only the class' commencement scenes omitted.

Princeton University

In this patient, resolution of the epithelial defect and clearing of the corneal infiltrates only occurred after the commencement of oral co-trimoxazole.

Journal of Ophthalmic Inflammation and Infection

The only reason that the commencement of the new Senate session was popularly perceived as the one time filibuster reform was conceivably obtainable is simply because in the polite traditions of the Senate, it's considered to be less of a "nuclear option" to alter the rules from the outset.

Huffington Post

Detection of this strain was only possible with the commencement of universal prospective typing of all M. tuberculosis isolates in the West and East Midlands.

Plosone

When he visited his alma mater, the C. W. Post campus of Long Island University, last weekend, not only did he speak at the commencement ceremony for 7,500 graduates, but he also promised the institution $10 million, its largest donation ever.

The New York Times

Tickets are required for the Commencement Luncheon only (see above section).

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "only the commencement" to specifically highlight that you are referring to the very beginning of a process or event, suggesting that more developments are expected.

Common error

Avoid using "only the commencement" when you want to emphasize significant progress. This phrase is best used to indicate that something has just begun and is far from complete.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "only the commencement" functions as a qualifier, emphasizing that a process or event is in its initial phase. It indicates a starting point with the implication of future developments. According to Ludwig, it follows standard grammar rules.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "only the commencement" is grammatically sound and serves to emphasize the initial phase of an event or process. Ludwig AI indicates that it follows standard grammar rules. While it's not a highly frequent expression, it is versatile enough for use in both neutral contexts. Consider similar phrases like ""merely the beginning"" or ""just the start"" for clearer communication in some situations. Remember that this phrase indicates that much is yet to happen, so avoid it if you need to show significant progress.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

merely the beginning

Replaces "commencement" with "beginning" for a more general term.

just the start

Uses simpler vocabulary to convey the initial phase.

the initial stage alone

Adds emphasis on the exclusiveness of the initial phase.

solely the inception

Replaces "commencement" with the more formal "inception".

simply the outset

Uses "outset" to denote the beginning point.

but the opening

Focuses on the opening aspect of the event.

barely the initiation

Highlights the minimal progress beyond the starting point.

no more than the kickoff

Informal alternative using "kickoff" to represent the start.

the embryonic phase

Uses a more technical term to describe an early stage of development.

the dawn of

Metaphorically represents the start as the beginning of daylight.

FAQs

How can I use "only the commencement" in a sentence?

You can use "only the commencement" to emphasize that something is in its earliest stage. For example, "This report covers "only the commencement" of the project, with further details to follow."

What are some alternatives to "only the commencement"?

Alternatives include "merely the beginning", "just the start", or "solely the inception", depending on the desired level of formality.

Is it correct to say "only the commencement"?

Yes, "only the commencement" is grammatically correct and understandable. However, its frequency may be limited, so consider if a more common alternative like "just the beginning" better suits your audience.

What does "only the commencement" imply?

The phrase "only the commencement" implies that what you are referring to is just the start and that there's much more to come or to be done. It emphasizes the initial nature of the event or process.