start on a positive note

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "start on a positive note" is correct and can be used in written English.
You might use it when offering advice or when giving a pep talk to someone, or when introducing a speech. For example: "Let's all start on a positive note and make this a successful event!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Why? Firstly, because support needs to be in place from day one to enable students to fully participate and start on a positive note.

The Guardian

11.12am GMT It's nice to start on a positive note.

The Guardian

Juncker sought to ensure that the negotiations start on a positive note.

The Guardian

"This is my first experience in the Football League and to start on a positive note with five clean sheets is fantastic for me.

BBC

MK Dons manager Karl Robinson told BBC Three Counties Radio: "Obviously it's nice to start on a positive note, but it could have been so different.

BBC

Call a family meeting and start on a positive note, offering appreciations to each member of the family.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

The night started on a positive note for the Scottish champions.

Independent

The market started on a positive note after surprisingly strong profit news late on Thursday from two technology leaders, Oracle and Research In Motion, which makes BlackBerrys.

The New York Times

Thursday had started on a positive note after the Labor Department reported last week's initial jobless claims fell more than expected to 454,000, but that enthusiasm tapered off as the day wore on.

Forbes

But he added, "It's nice to start 2000 on a positive note".

The New York Times

What's most important is that the ticket is a positive event, and when the youth sees the officer the next time, it will start off on a positive note.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When beginning a presentation or meeting, use "start on a positive note" to create an encouraging atmosphere and set the stage for productive collaboration.

Common error

While effective, avoid using "start on a positive note" excessively in a single piece of writing. Vary your language with alternatives like '"get off to a good start"' or '"begin optimistically"' to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "start on a positive note" functions as an idiomatic expression, typically used as a preamble or introduction to indicate the intention to begin something in an optimistic or favorable manner. Ludwig provides examples that underscore its versatile use.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Wiki

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "start on a positive note" is a correct and versatile phrase used to indicate beginning something with optimism and a favorable attitude. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While not extremely common, it is frequently found in News & Media sources, demonstrating a neutral to professional register. When writing, remember to vary your language and use it strategically to create an encouraging atmosphere. Alternatives include '"get off to a good start"' or '"begin optimistically"'.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

get off to a good start

Focuses on achieving a successful initial stage.

kick off well

More informal, implies a successful or promising start.

make a promising start

Highlights the potential for future success suggested by the initial stage.

begin optimistically

Focuses on the manner of beginning rather than a specific result or impression.

set a positive tone from the outset

Emphasizes establishing a favorable atmosphere or mood from the beginning.

begin with optimism

Highlights a hopeful and confident approach from the beginning.

commence favorably

Emphasizes a propitious or advantageous start, slightly more formal.

launch successfully

Focuses on the act of launching something in a successful manner.

initiate auspiciously

Highlights the promising or favorable nature of the beginning; very formal.

open advantageously

Stresses that the opening or start provides an advantage.

FAQs

How can I use "start on a positive note" in a sentence?

You can use "start on a positive note" to suggest initiating something with optimism or to create a good first impression. For example, "Let's "start on a positive note" by acknowledging our recent successes".

What are some alternatives to "start on a positive note"?

Some alternatives include '"begin optimistically"', '"get off to a good start"', or '"commence favorably"'. The best choice depends on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it better to "start on a positive note" or "end on a positive note"?

Both are valuable. "Start on a positive note" sets a good tone from the beginning, while "end on a positive note" leaves a lasting favorable impression. The choice depends on the specific goals of the communication.

What does it mean to "start things off on a positive note"?

To "start things off on a positive note" means to initiate something in a way that is optimistic, encouraging, and likely to lead to a successful outcome. Similar phrases include '"kick off well"' or '"set a positive tone from the outset"'.