start by saying

USAGE SUMMARY

"start by saying" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to introduce someone else's opinion or point of view. For example: "Start by saying that I really appreciate your efforts in this project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I want to start by saying sorry to our customers.

The Guardian - Opinion

I wanted to start by saying: "These are my words.

The Guardian

— Tanya Abrams Seniors: Let me start by saying, I feel your pain.

The New York Times

Instead, however, I start by saying that it left me cold throughout its almost 75 minutes.

The New York Times - Arts

I should start by saying as clearly as I can that I love antibiotics.

The New York Times

If you say, 'Let's start by saying there are fifty people out there,' he says, 'Why?

The New Yorker

You start by saying we'll just go after the handful of 9/11 masterminds.

The New Yorker

"I am going to start by saying that I wrote this paper myself," he said.

The New Yorker

I have to start by saying, I absolutely love the people of Iowa.

Independent

I thought we would start by saying that we really like you," Denise said.

The New York Times - Magazine

Let me start by saying that our armed forces are exceptional.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "start by saying" in writing, consider whether a more direct approach might be more effective. Overuse can make your writing seem hesitant or indirect.

Common error

Avoid starting multiple consecutive sentences or paragraphs with "start by saying". This can make your writing sound repetitive and lacking in confidence. Use synonyms or more direct phrasing instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "start by saying" functions as a discourse marker or introductory phrase. It signals the beginning of a speaker's statement, opinion, or intention, setting the stage for further elaboration. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is commonly used to introduce a viewpoint.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "start by saying" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a statement, opinion, or intention. As Ludwig AI points out, it's generally considered grammatically correct and suitable for a variety of contexts. While very common in news and media, it may be less suitable for highly formal or academic writing where more precise alternatives may be preferred. Be mindful of overuse to avoid repetition and maintain a confident tone. The phrase functions as a discourse marker to prepare the audience for what will follow.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

let me preface by saying

Highlights that the following statement is introductory or sets the stage.

begin by stating

More formal alternative, suitable for professional or academic contexts.

I'd like to open by noting

Offers a more gentle or understated way to introduce a key point.

initiate by mentioning

Emphasizes the act of bringing something up at the beginning.

let me introduce by observing

Highlights an observation that serves as an introduction to a topic.

firstly, I would like to say

Adds a sequential element, useful in structured arguments or presentations.

to begin with, let me state

Similar to 'firstly', but emphasizes the beginning of a discussion.

before I proceed, I want to mention

Suggests a brief preliminary remark before the main content.

at the outset, I wish to express

Very formal, suitable for speeches or official statements.

initially, my intention is to convey

Focuses on the speaker's intent at the start.

FAQs

How can I use "start by saying" in a sentence?

"Start by saying" is used to introduce a statement, opinion, or feeling, often as a preface to something more significant. For example, "I'll "start by saying you're sorry" before explaining what happened."

What can I say instead of "start by saying"?

Alternatives include "let me preface by saying", "to begin with, let me state", or "firstly, I would like to say", each offering a slightly different nuance.

Is it correct to use "start by saying" in formal writing?

Yes, "start by saying" is acceptable in formal writing, although more sophisticated alternatives like "begin by stating" or "at the outset, I wish to express" might be preferred in very formal contexts.

What's the difference between "start by saying" and "let me add"?

"Start by saying" introduces an initial statement, while "let me add" introduces supplementary information to something already discussed. They serve different functions in structuring a conversation or text.