start to notice

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "start to notice" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe the beginning of a process of recognizing or becoming aware of something. Example: As I walked through the forest, I started to notice the chirping of birds and the rustling of leaves.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But once you start to notice the signs of unsustainability, you start seeing them everywhere.

The New York Times - Magazine

After a few months of living together, you will start to notice the guinea pig's patterns.

WikiHow

But then you start to notice, with a raised eyebrow, the little things.

BBC

You start to notice patterns.

The Washington Post

But then you start to notice things.

The New York Times - Tech

You start to notice connections between seemingly unlike things.

The New Yorker

When did you first start to notice this trend?

The New York Times

And I start to notice and enjoy little visuals.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

You should start to notice a few things.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"All of a sudden you start to notice the small things.

The New York Times

I start to notice that friction and I take a walk.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "start to notice" when you want to emphasize the initial stage of becoming aware of something, often after a period of unawareness.

Common error

In academic or professional contexts, consider using more precise synonyms like "begin to observe", "become aware", or "recognize" to convey a more sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "start to notice" primarily functions as a verb phrase indicating the initial stage of perception or awareness. Ludwig provides numerous examples showing its use in describing a gradual awakening to new information or changes. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Wiki

33%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "start to notice" is a very common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe the beginning of awareness or recognition. Ludwig's analysis, supported by numerous examples, indicates its widespread use across news, media, and general writing. While perfectly acceptable, it's advisable to consider more sophisticated synonyms in formal contexts for enhanced precision. Ludwig AI confirms the validity of this expression, making it a reliable choice for expressing the initial stages of perception.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

begin to observe

Focuses more on active observation rather than just passively noticing.

become aware of

Emphasizes the gaining of knowledge or understanding.

begin to realize

Highlights the dawning of comprehension or understanding.

start to perceive

Implies using the senses to become aware.

begin to detect

Suggests discovering something subtle or hidden.

come to recognize

Implies a gradual process of identification.

start to see

More general term for becoming aware; can also mean understanding.

begin to understand

Emphasizes the mental process of grasping something.

grow to appreciate

Focuses on developing a positive awareness or liking.

start to acknowledge

Highlights the act of admitting or recognizing something, especially something previously ignored.

FAQs

How can I use "start to notice" in a sentence?

The phrase "start to notice" indicates the beginning of awareness. For example, "After a few weeks, I "started to notice" improvements in my fitness level."

What can I say instead of "start to notice"?

You can use alternatives like "begin to observe", "become aware of", or "start to perceive" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "begin to notice" instead of "start to notice"?

Yes, "begin to notice" is a perfectly acceptable alternative to "start to notice" and conveys a similar meaning.

What is the difference between "start to notice" and "realize"?

"Start to notice" implies a gradual awareness, while "realize" suggests a sudden understanding or comprehension. "I "started to notice" the changes over time," versus "I suddenly "realized" what was happening."