start texting

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "start texting" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when instructing someone to begin sending text messages or when discussing the act of initiating communication via text. Example: "If you need to reach me, just start texting, and I'll respond as soon as I can."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

People get bored, they start texting or watching a DVD".

The Guardian - Tech

Some clients start texting their orders even before the show is over.

The New Yorker

All they have to do is download an app to their mobile phone and confirm their identity in order to start texting colleagues straight away.

The Guardian

I don't want to start texting them supper invitations to join me at Julia Street, or start half-hoping that they will stand under the fanlight window at my front door and buzz my apartment.

The New York Times

It follows Kenny, a young man whose computer is hacked, his webcam gets recorded while he's having a wank, and the trolls start texting him commands under the threat of releasing everything they stole.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

In between the increasingly over-the-top action scenes that turn Rio into another demolition derby for visiting Americans, the writer Chris Morgan tosses in a little God talk and some manly jabber about family (along with some self-aware laughs), if not enough to provoke even the young and the restless to start texting.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

But then someone starts texting Scrappy dares.

The Guardian - Books

I started texting her from work.

The New Yorker

Some had started texting orders during the show itself.

The New Yorker

On Monday, she starts texting her clients what's available.

The New York Times - Magazine

This morning, a young woman sat down beside me and started texting: click, click, click.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When instructing someone to "start texting", be clear about the desired outcome or topic of the conversation to ensure effective communication.

Common error

While "start texting" is acceptable, avoid using it excessively in formal writing. Alternatives like "initiate messaging" or "begin electronic correspondence" may be more suitable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "start texting" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the initiation of an action. According to Ludwig, this phrase is correct and usable in written English, instructing someone to begin sending text messages.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "start texting" is a grammatically sound and commonly used verb phrase that instructs or suggests initiating a text message conversation. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability. While it's versatile, it leans towards a neutral to informal register. It's frequently found in news and media sources. Alternatives such as "begin texting" or "initiate messaging" may be more appropriate in formal contexts. Overall, "start texting" is a straightforward and effective way to convey the beginning of a text-based interaction.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

begin texting

Uses a more formal synonym for "start".

start messaging

Uses the broader term "messaging" instead of "texting".

initiate texting

Emphasizes the act of beginning a text conversation.

begin messaging

Uses a more formal synonym for "start" in the context of messaging.

commence texting

A more formal way to say "start texting".

initiate messaging

Highlights the act of initiating a messaging conversation.

get to texting

Suggests moving to the activity of texting.

get on texting

Implies beginning a texting session or habit.

kick off texting

An informal way to express starting to text.

launch into texting

Suggests a rapid or enthusiastic start to texting.

FAQs

What does "start texting" mean?

The phrase "start texting" means to begin sending text messages using a mobile phone or other device.

What can I say instead of "start texting"?

You can use alternatives like "begin texting", "initiate texting", or "start messaging" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "start texting"?

Yes, "start texting" is grammatically correct and commonly used in everyday English.

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

You can use "start texting" in sentences like "If you need to reach me urgently, just "start texting", and I'll respond as soon as possible" or "They "start texting" each other as soon as they wake up".