start making preparations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "start making preparations" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when indicating the beginning of the process of getting ready for an event or task. Example: "As the date of the conference approaches, we need to start making preparations to ensure everything runs smoothly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

For starving inhabitants of North Korea, this would normally be a good time to start making preparations to escape.

The Economist

Four UK artificial insemination centres, based in England and Northern Ireland, will start making preparations for the exports in the new year.

The Guardian

Soon, they are advised by the government to start making preparations for nuclear war — they begin somewhat farcically: taping up their windows, building shelters out of mattresses and sofa cushions, stockpiling water, and so on.

The New Yorker

Without passage of either bill, the administration has warned that the NSA would need to start making preparations for ending its bulk collection programme from this weekend to avoid any possible breach of the law.

The Guardian

"It is the prerogative of CAF, and since we have not indicated anything to the contrary, we reserve the right to step in and start making preparations to host a successful competition in 2013".

BBC

"Beginning next week, we'll start making preparations for next year", Perkins said following the loss.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Like his co-stars, Grint has already started making preparations for his departure.

Independent

Then Surma said he started making preparations for what might come next with Spanier.

The New York Times - Sports

When my mum suggested I move to Indonesia with her, I thought, "Why not?" and started making preparations.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Then, tens of billions of dollars left Taiwan in one week and many Taiwanese, including Mr. Zha, the teahouse owner, started making preparations for their families to emigrate to the West.

The New York Times

Just like it sounds, preparation means you intend to start making change soon.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "start making preparations", ensure the context clarifies what specific preparations are being initiated to avoid ambiguity. For instance, "start making preparations for the upcoming conference" is more effective than simply "start making preparations".

Common error

Avoid using "start making preparations" in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "get ready" or "begin to prepare" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "start making preparations" functions as a verb phrase indicating the commencement of actions necessary to prepare for a future event or task. Ludwig confirms its validity and common usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

23%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Science

9%

Science & Research

3%

The Guardian - Sport

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "start making preparations" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression for indicating the beginning of a process of getting ready for something. Ludwig's analysis confirms its validity and provides numerous examples across diverse contexts. While versatile, it's most commonly found in news and media, as well as in formal business settings. When using the phrase, ensure clarity regarding the specific preparations being initiated. Consider using more informal alternatives like "get ready" in casual conversations. Ultimately, "start making preparations" serves as a clear signal to initiate actions needed to ensure readiness for upcoming events or challenges.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

begin preparations

This alternative is more concise and formal, omitting the action of "making".

commence preparations

Similar to "begin preparations", but even more formal and often used in official contexts.

initiate preparations

Suggests a formal and structured beginning to the preparatory process.

begin to prepare

This phrase emphasizes the action of preparing, but can sound slightly redundant.

get ready

This is a more general and informal way to express the same idea.

start getting ready

Similar to "get ready" but includes the 'start' to highlight the commencement.

set about preparing

This phrase suggests a determined approach to starting the preparations.

kick off preparations

An idiomatic expression that adds a sense of energy and enthusiasm to starting preparations.

embark on preparations

A more formal and somewhat dramatic way to describe beginning preparations, often used for significant undertakings.

lay the groundwork

Focuses on establishing the necessary foundation before fully engaging in preparations.

FAQs

What does "start making preparations" mean?

The phrase "start making preparations" means to begin the process of getting ready for something, whether it's an event, a task, or a future situation. It implies initiating the steps necessary to ensure readiness.

What can I say instead of "start making preparations"?

You can use alternatives like "begin preparations", "commence preparations", or "get ready" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "started making preparations"?

Yes, "started making preparations" is the past tense form of the phrase and is grammatically correct. It indicates that the process of preparing has already begun.

How do I use "start making preparations" in a sentence?

You can use "start making preparations" in a sentence like this: "As the deadline approaches, we need to start making preparations to ensure a successful launch."