start tracing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "start tracing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when instructing someone to begin the process of following a path, line, or pattern, often in contexts like drawing, mapping, or debugging. Example: "To create the outline of the design, you need to start tracing the edges of the template."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

But to start tracing the shooter, investigators need to identify the gun that was used and then trace its ownership.

The New York Times

Five men in yellow fluorescent jackets, the kind city council workers wear, pick up spray cans and start tracing the sketch they prepared earlier.

The Guardian

When the earthquake happened it was a signal for OSM members around the globe to start downloading satellite images (either freely available or donated by Yahoo) and then to start tracing the outlines of streets on top so a map emerged.

The Guardian - Tech

The New Yorker, August 29 , 1931 P. 31Luncheon party of three relatives, an Aunt and two cousin They sight another relation of the family, and start tracing the marriage, etc. of their missing kin, and speaking in no flattering tones about her character.

The New Yorker

As for the future of Chainalysis, it's now planning to go beyond Bitcoin and start tracing 10 different cryptocurrencies in total, including Litecoin and Ether.

Forbes

"We need to use that kind of technology to start tracing fish because it's not just a risk to consumers, but it can hurt business brands," said Schorr.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

To start, trace your hand about a half inch larger than it actually is onto the cotton fabric, making sure the index finger is separated from the rest of your fingers.

Vice

Begin To Shape The Body. once you outlined a rectangle, where the lines on each side first start, trace a curved line, basically like regular shoulders.

WikiHow

Then he starts tracing motifs and patterns.

The New Yorker

I remember when it happened, we all gathered around a whiteboard and started tracing out.

Independent

"So we started tracing back to where this had come from," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When instructing someone, follow "start tracing" with a clear indication of what needs to be traced, such as "start tracing the outline of the map" for better clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "start tracing" without specifying what is being traced. For example, instead of saying "Let's start tracing", specify "Let's start tracing the source of the problem."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "start tracing" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to initiate an action involving following a path, outline, or process. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and commonly used. Examples show its application in various contexts, from tracing bullets to tracing family connections.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Wiki

35%

News & Media

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "start tracing" is a versatile verb phrase used to denote the beginning of an action that involves following or investigating something. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used across multiple contexts. Its neutral register makes it suitable for both formal and informal settings. Whether you are instructing someone to trace a drawing or beginning an investigation, using "start tracing" effectively communicates the initiation of the process. Be sure to clarify what is being traced to avoid ambiguity. Common alternatives include "begin tracking", "commence following", and "initiate investigation".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

begin to follow

A simpler and more direct way of expressing the start of a following action.

begin tracking

Emphasizes the monitoring aspect, similar to following a path or data.

commence following

A more formal way to say "start tracing", focusing on the act of pursuing.

start to investigate

Highlights the investigative nature of the tracing process.

initiate investigation

Shifts the focus to a more formal inquiry or examination.

start tracking down

Specifies that the tracing involves finding something that is lost or hidden.

begin the pursuit

Emphasizes the act of chasing or following intently.

initiate a search

Focuses on the active seeking of something, similar to tracing a path.

start the process of locating

Focuses on pinpointing the location of something, usually after some effort.

embark on tracing

Similar in meaning to start tracing. The difference is that it suggests a beginning to a journey.

FAQs

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

You can use "start tracing" to describe the beginning of an investigative process. For example, "Investigators need to "start tracing" the origin of the data leak immediately."

What are some alternatives to "start tracing"?

Alternatives include "begin tracking", "commence following", or "initiate investigation", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "begin tracing" or "start tracing"?

"Begin tracing" and "start tracing" are largely interchangeable. "Begin" is slightly more formal, while "start" is more common in everyday language. Choose the one that best fits the overall tone and context of your writing.

What does "start tracing back" mean?

"Start tracing back" means to begin investigating the origin or source of something by following a sequence of events or connections. For example, "We "started tracing back" to the source of the error."