start downloading

USAGE SUMMARY

"start downloading" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to when someone begins to download a file, typically through the internet. For example, "If you're ready to get the document, just click the link and start downloading the file."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Once the signal received, WSUS can contact the main server to start downloading.

Energy Procedia

Once you start downloading apps or watching videos, it's all over.

The New York Times

Those connections take time to "warm up" and start downloading at their full capacity.

MIT Technology Review

The reducers can start downloading the required input files earlier, thus improving turnaround time.

Journal of Internet Services and Applications

You may get lucky and can start downloading right away.

TechCrunch

The cool kids pre-load all their games so sign into Battle.net and start downloading.

TechCrunch

Start downloading your file.

WikiHow

Start downloading the file.

WikiHow

It will then start downloading.

WikiHow

Restart Vuze and start downloading.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

OS X Yosemite should start downloading to your computer.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When instructing users, be specific about the action that triggers the download. For example, "Click the button to "start downloading" the file."

Common error

Avoid using the infinitive form of the verb after "start". Instead of "start to download", use "start downloading" or "start to download" where appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "start downloading" primarily functions as a verb phrase, indicating the commencement of a process. It is used to describe the action of beginning to transfer data from a server to a local device. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating this function in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

49%

News & Media

14%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "start downloading" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to indicate the beginning of a data transfer. As Ludwig AI confirms, it functions primarily to instruct or inform, and its register is generally neutral, making it suitable for a wide range of contexts. Predominantly found in Wiki, News & Media and Science sources, it signifies an action readily understood across different platforms and applications. When using the phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the trigger for the download action and avoid the infinitive form of the verb after "start". Alternatives such as "begin downloading" can be used for a more formal tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

begin downloading

Focuses on the initiation of the download process, similar to the original phrase.

initiate download

More formal and emphasizes the action of beginning the download.

commence downloading

A more formal alternative to "start downloading", implying a structured beginning.

kick off the download

More informal and emphasizes a quick start to the download.

get the download going

Casual phrasing, highlighting the process of starting the download.

set download in motion

Emphasizes the act of initiating the download process.

activate download

Focuses on making the download process active or functional.

enable download

Highlights the act of enabling or allowing the download to begin.

trigger download

Suggests the download is beginning due to a specific action or event.

launch download

Implies a more forceful start to the download, similar to launching a rocket.

FAQs

How can I use "start downloading" in a sentence?

You can use "start downloading" to describe the beginning of a file transfer. For example, "Click here to "start downloading" the software." or "The program will automatically "start downloading" updates."

What's a more formal alternative to "start downloading"?

Alternatives like "begin downloading" or "initiate download" are more formal ways to express the same action.

Is it correct to say "start to download" instead of "start downloading"?

While "start to download" is grammatically correct, "start downloading" is often more concise and commonly used. Both are acceptable, but context may dictate the preferred option.

What is the difference between "start downloading" and "resume downloading"?

"Start downloading" implies beginning the process for the first time, while "resume downloading" means to continue a download that was previously interrupted or paused.