start to accept

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "start to accept" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the process of beginning to come to terms with something or to acknowledge a situation. Example: "After months of denial, she finally began to start to accept the reality of the situation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

When you fall into that cycle, he says, "you start to accept things that you wouldn't usually find acceptable.

Vice

When you start to accept torture as something normal, it destroys your sense of humanity.

The New York Times

More worryingly, if these fears go unchecked, we can start to accept them as truth.

The Guardian

Princeton said it would start to accept a competitor, the Universal College Application, which is used by fewer schools.

The New York Times

Only when Simon tried to hang himself, a fabled great communicator laid low by catastrophe, did they start to accept.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

And the more they start to accept new forms of technology, the more difficult it becomes to control outside influences.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

"We plug the data into an algorithm and it starts to accept or decline applicants.

The New York Times - Sports

But some governments are starting to accept that there may be no alternative.

The Economist

"People had started to accept the fact that we weren't going to be successful".

The New York Times - Sports

But they are starting to accept their age — and to invest in it.

The New York Times - Tech

"I think I started to accept, finally, what I had previously categorically denied.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the emotional tone. "Start to accept" can imply resignation or a reluctant acknowledgement. Choose it when a gradual shift in attitude is appropriate.

Common error

While acceptable, "start to accept" might sound too informal in highly formal or academic writing. In such contexts, consider alternatives like "begin to acknowledge" or "gradually recognize" for a more sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "start to accept" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the beginning of an action or process. It describes the initial stage of acknowledging, agreeing to, or becoming reconciled to something. Ludwig examples show its use across various domains.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "start to accept" is a versatile phrase indicating the beginning of acknowledgment or agreement. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used. Its frequency and appearance across diverse contexts like news, science, and general web content indicates broad applicability. While generally neutral in tone, it can be slightly informal in highly formal contexts. When using "start to accept", emphasize the transitional aspect of acknowledging or coming to terms with something. Consider related phrases like "begin to acknowledge" or "gradually accept" to fine-tune the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

begin to acknowledge

Focuses on the initial phase of recognizing something as true or valid.

start to recognize

Focuses on the initial awareness or understanding.

start embracing

Suggests a more positive and active acceptance.

gradually accept

Emphasizes the slow and progressive nature of acceptance.

start to get used to

Emphasizes becoming familiar and comfortable with something over time.

come to terms with

Implies a process of emotional adjustment and acceptance.

begin to adjust

Highlights adapting to new conditions or circumstances.

develop acceptance

Indicates the gradual growth and formation of acceptance.

begin to reconcile

Highlights the act of restoring harmony by accepting a situation.

initiate agreement

Focuses on the early stages of reaching a consensus or accepting terms.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "start to accept" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using alternatives like "begin to acknowledge", "gradually recognize", or "come to terms with".

Is there a difference between "start to accept" and "accept"?

"Start to accept" implies a process or the beginning of acceptance, whereas "accept" suggests a completed action or state of agreement.

When is it appropriate to use "start to accept" in writing?

Use "start to accept" when describing a gradual shift in attitude or understanding, particularly when acknowledging something previously resisted or denied.

What are some common synonyms for "start to accept"?

Common synonyms include "begin to acknowledge", "start embracing", and "gradually accept". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.