start and end dates

USAGE SUMMARY

"start and end dates" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it anytime you want to refer to the first and last dates of an event, project, or activity. For example: "The start and end dates of the conference are June 15th and June 21st."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Pacing: Courses have start and end dates.

The New York Times

Start and end dates for Labor Day week are flexible.

The New York Times - Travel

Select the service level and start and end dates.

Stanford University

But the authors went further by trying to cherry-pick the start and end dates.

The Guardian

Where you'd have start and end dates, state how long you were in the role.

The Guardian

Earnings Dates - The specific start and end dates for which the employee is to be paid.

Cornell University

These dates may vary from the actual start and end dates for the pay period.

Cornell University

This includes term start and end dates, holidays and breaks, and registration.

Yale University

Please note that the start and end dates may still change depending French university dates.

Columbia University

But the attempt to establish start and end dates for all the dishonesty was always a bit naïve.

The New York Times - Sports

All certificate courses have fixed start and end dates, with assignments and project work assigned throughout the course.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When specifying the "start and end dates", ensure clarity by using a consistent date format (e.g., YYYY-MM-DD) to avoid confusion, especially in international contexts.

Common error

Avoid using abbreviated or ambiguous date formats (e.g., 1/2/2025) that can be interpreted differently in various regions. Always spell out the month or use a standard numerical format to prevent misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "start and end dates" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. Ludwig AI affirms its correct usage. Examples show it identifying specific periods for events, projects, or employment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

33%

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "start and end dates" is a grammatically correct and widely used term, functioning as a noun phrase to define a specific period. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common occurrence across various domains, notably academia, news media, and scientific research. To ensure clarity, use standardized date formats. Alternatives such as "commencement and termination dates" can provide a more formal tone. Given its widespread use, understanding the proper application of "start and end dates" is crucial for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

beginning and ending dates

Uses synonyms to express the commencement and termination of a period.

commencement and termination dates

More formal synonyms for "start" and "end".

period of validity

Emphasizes the duration for which something is effective or applicable.

duration of the project

Focuses on the length of a specific project.

time frame

A general term indicating the period in which something occurs.

dates of operation

Highlights the period when something is active or functioning.

effective period

Stresses the time during which something is in effect.

from start to finish

Idiomatic way of indicating the entire duration of something.

validity period

Indicates the duration for which something is valid or legitimate.

term of service

Commonly used in the context of employment or official duties.

FAQs

How do I properly format "start and end dates" in a formal document?

In formal documents, it's best to use a clear and unambiguous format such as "YYYY-MM-DD" or spell out the month to avoid confusion. For example, "2025-01-01 to 2025-01-31" or "January 1, 2025 to January 31, 2025".

What's a more formal way to say "start and end dates"?

For a more formal tone, you could use "commencement and termination dates" or "beginning and ending dates".

Why is it important to clearly define "start and end dates"?

Clearly defining "start and end dates" is crucial to avoid misunderstandings and ensure everyone involved has the same understanding of the timeframe. It's especially important in contracts, project plans, and academic schedules.

Can the "start and end dates" be flexible?

Yes, "start and end dates" can be flexible depending on the context. For example, a project's "time frame" might be adjusted due to unforeseen circumstances, but this should always be communicated clearly to all stakeholders.