start well

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "start well" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the beginning of an event, project, or activity, indicating that it has commenced positively or successfully. Example: "If we want to achieve our goals, we need to ensure that we start well in the first quarter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

General

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"He didn't start well".

The New Yorker

It doesn't start well.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Things start well.

The Guardian - Books

Things didn't start well.

The Guardian

It did not start well.

The Economist

This story doesn't start well.

The Guardian - Sport

They start well, very well.

The Guardian - Sport

"If you start well, it builds momentum.

Independent

It's also important to start well.

Independent

It did not start well for Miliband.

Independent

"Ideally, you would like to start well.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "start well", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is beginning positively. For example, specify the project, game, or initiative that is "starting well".

Common error

Avoid using "start well" without specifying what exactly is starting. Vague references can confuse the reader and diminish the impact of your statement. Always clarify the subject.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "start well" functions as a verb-adverb construction, typically used to describe the initial phase of an activity or event. Ludwig AI indicates its correctness, which confirms it adheres to standard grammatical rules.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Sport

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Science

7%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "start well" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe a positive or successful beginning. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common usage. It's versatile enough for general communication, especially in news and sports contexts. While "start well" maintains a neutral tone, consider synonyms like "begin successfully" or "get off to a good start" for greater formality or emphasis. Ensure clarity by specifying what exactly is "starting well" to avoid vague references and maximize impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

begin successfully

Focuses on the successful aspect of the beginning.

get off to a good start

Emphasizes the positive nature of the initial phase.

make a strong start

Highlights the intensity and impact of the beginning.

commence favorably

A more formal way of saying something began well.

kick off positively

An idiomatic way to describe a positive launch or start.

begin auspiciously

Implies the beginning is promising or has good omens.

have a flying start

Describes a start that is fast and energetic.

establish a good footing

Focuses on creating a stable and positive base from the beginning.

set off on the right foot

Idiomatic, emphasizes starting in a correct or advantageous way.

open promisingly

Highlights the potential and promise shown at the start.

FAQs

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

You can use "start well" to describe the beginning of an event or process that is progressing positively. For example: "The project needs to "begin successfully" in order to meet its deadlines."

What are some alternatives to saying "start well"?

Alternatives include "get off to a good start", "begin successfully", or "make a strong start depending" on the context.

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

"Start" and "begin" are often interchangeable. "Start well" is slightly more informal. Consider your audience and the specific nuance you want to convey; both are generally acceptable.

What does it mean when something "doesn't start well"?

When something "doesn't start well", it means that it is experiencing difficulties or setbacks from the very beginning. This could refer to a project, a game, or any other kind of endeavor.