start away

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "start away" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It is not commonly used and may confuse readers, as it lacks context and clarity. Example: "Please start away from the main road to avoid traffic."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

He wrote in his journal: There seem to be things that I can almost get hold of, and think about; but when I am just on the point of seizing them, they start away, like slippery things.

The New Yorker

The guidelines say that barricades should start away from the store's entrance, and that they must have breaks or turns in them to prevent customers pushing from the rear.

The New York Times

It said: "Trains are unable to use platforms one to 13 at London Waterloo and this reduction in available platforms means that many services will need to terminate before London Waterloo and many services will start away from London Waterloo.

The Guardian

Mo Williams had 17 points and 14 assists, Randy Foye scored 20 points and Marvin Williams had 17 as the Jazz opened a four-game trip by avoiding their first 0-5 stawayaway from home since 1987.

The Guardian - Sport

Before this reunion, Cook and co start away at Hampshire, where following long chats with the national selector, Ed Smith – and a ballsy decision to decline a winter Lions spot – the captain, James Vince, has promoted himself to opener in a bid to get back into the whites of England.

The Guardian - Sport

This is probably not the record but what is? Charlton's new manager, Karl Robinson, appointed in time to take charge of Saturday's home match against Sheffield United, looked at first as if he might have chosen this Monday to take charge so he could start away from the distraction of pigs on the pitch and other symbols of supporter unrest with the ownership.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

Niskala starts away with the puck.

The New York Times

Geodesic flow on surface z=x6+y6 starting away from (0,0).

Harvard University

Geodesic flow on surface z=x2+y2 starting away at (0,0).

Harvard University

Geodesic flow on surface z=x4+y4 starting away at (0,0).

Harvard University

After she'd started away, I said, "Excuse me".

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using the phrase "start away" in formal writing. Opt for clearer alternatives like "begin from" or "set off from" to ensure your message is easily understood.

Common error

Don't assume that "start away" is interchangeable with simply "start". The addition of "away" often creates an awkward or incorrect sentence structure. Reconsider the context and choose a more appropriate preposition or rephrase entirely.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "start away" functions as a verb phrase, typically intended to indicate the commencement of an action from a specific location or direction. However, its usage is often grammatically questionable, as seen in the Ludwig AI analysis.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "start away" is considered grammatically questionable and lacks clarity in standard English. Ludwig AI analysis confirms this, advising caution in its use. While it appears in various contexts such as news, media, and Wiki sources, its meaning is not always precise. For clearer communication, it is recommended to use alternatives like "begin from" or "set off from", particularly in formal writing. The expert rating reflects the need for careful consideration when using this phrase, and it is generally best to opt for more established and unambiguous expressions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

begin from

Replaces "start" with a synonym, offering a more formal tone.

set off from

Replaces "start" with a phrase suggesting a journey or departure.

commence from

A more formal synonym for "start from", suitable for academic or professional contexts.

initiate from

Suggests the beginning of a process or project.

originate from

Emphasizes the source or origin of something.

launch from

Implies a more forceful or deliberate beginning.

depart from

Focuses on the act of leaving a place or situation.

stem from

Indicates that something arises or develops from a particular source.

rise from

Similar to "stem from" but may suggest a more gradual or natural emergence.

spring from

Implies a sudden or unexpected origin.

FAQs

How can I use "start away" correctly in a sentence?

While "start away" is not generally recommended due to its lack of clarity, you might consider alternatives like "begin from" or "set off from" for clearer communication.

What does "start away" mean?

The phrase "start away" lacks a precise, widely accepted meaning. Depending on the context, it might vaguely suggest beginning something from a distance or initiating a departure, but it is generally best to use more explicit phrasing.

Is it better to say "start away" or "start from"?

Using "start from" is generally preferable to "start away" as it is more grammatically sound and conveys a clearer meaning. Alternatives like "begin from" or "commence from" are also suitable.

Are there situations where "start away" is acceptable?

While some instances of "start away" can be found, they often appear in informal contexts or where the meaning is implicitly understood. For formal or professional communication, it is advisable to avoid this phrase and opt for more precise alternatives.