start it up

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "start it up" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to initiating a process, system, or device, such as starting a machine or application. Example: "To begin the presentation, please start it up on your laptop."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

When you start it up, the vehicle is powered by its two front wheels.

The New York Times

This loophole let them start it up with some custom-built software rather than its onboard Android operating system.

BBC

That's how you start it up.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Start it up in the Start-Up Nation!

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

EDF hopes to start it up in October next year.

The New York Times

If it was me, I would start it up with a couple of battalions, start it up slow, rather than all of Queens".

The New York Times

Once you have downloaded and installed ObsVis, start it up by typing obsvis.

Harvard University

You start it up (for example on Abel) by typing 'clisp' in the shell.

Harvard University

And we're going to start it up on the whole set of rules.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Could I start it up once more without burning the house?

The New York Times

To start it up, you can text message the cart's built-in tablet computer.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When instructing someone to begin using a device or application, "start it up" is a clear and concise way to initiate the action.

Common error

Be sure the "it" in "start it up" is clearly defined in the context to avoid confusion about what needs to be started.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "start it up" functions primarily as an imperative, instructing or suggesting the initiation of an action or process. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its widespread use in technical and informal contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

25%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrasal verb "start it up" is a common and grammatically correct way to instruct someone to begin a process or operate a device. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage across diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media, Academia, and Wiki sources. While the phrase maintains a neutral register, it can be adapted for both formal and informal settings by selecting appropriate alternatives such as "initiate it" or "get it going". When using "start it up", ensure the "it" is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

begin it

Focuses on the act of initiating something, simplifying the phrasal verb.

initiate it

Replaces the phrasal verb with a more formal single-word verb.

get it going

Emphasizes the process of setting something in motion.

kick it off

Adds an informal tone to the act of starting something.

activate it

Highlights the act of making something functional or operational.

power it on

Specifically refers to turning on a device or machine.

launch it

Suggests a more significant or formal commencement.

fire it up

Similar meaning, but more informal, often used for engines or computers.

boot it up

Specifically used for starting a computer or similar electronic device.

turn it on

Simplest and most direct way to express starting a device.

FAQs

How can I use "start it up" in a sentence?

You can use "start it up" when you want to tell someone to begin using a device, application, or process. For example, "To begin the installation, start it up by double-clicking the icon."

What are some alternatives to "start it up"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "begin it", "initiate it", or "get it going".

Is it more appropriate to say "start it up" or "turn it on"?

"Start it up" and "turn it on" are often interchangeable, especially when referring to devices. However, "start it up" can also refer to initiating a process or application, whereas "turn it on" is typically reserved for physical devices.

When is it better to use a more formal alternative to "start it up"?

In professional or formal settings, consider using "initiate it" or "begin it" as they convey a more serious tone.