start where

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "start where" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating the point at which one should begin an action or process. Example: "To solve this problem effectively, we need to start where we left off last time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

For a start where are we?

The Guardian

Once the restrictions start, where should they stop?

The New Yorker

Your story doesn't necessarily start where you think it does.

The Guardian

She should start where she finishes in the training runs".

The New York Times - Sports

To start, where will everyone live and work?

The New York Times

For a start, where would you hide the cat?

The New Yorker

Why not start where the previous talks left off?

The New York Times

Mr. Rose sought to start where he left off.

The New York Times - Arts

"Where does it start, where is it going?

The New York Times - Arts

She has systems, for a start, where I have none.

The Guardian - Arts

"Let's start where we agree," Mr. Obama said in his address.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When giving instructions, use "start where" to clearly indicate the initial step in a process. For example, "To assemble the product, start where the instructions indicate to connect the base."

Common error

Avoid using "start where" in situations where the starting point is unclear or not well-defined. For instance, instead of saying "Start where you feel comfortable", be more specific, such as "Start with the basic exercises to build confidence."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "start where" functions as a directive, guiding the audience to initiate an action or process at a specific point. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically sound and frequently used in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

10%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "start where" serves as a practical directive for initiating actions or discussions from a specific point. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse fields. Its neutral register allows for seamless integration into both informal and formal communication, making it an adaptable choice for providing clear guidance. While suitable in numerous contexts, ambiguity should be avoided by clearly defining the starting point. Alternatives such as "begin from" or "commence at" can be considered to add variety, though "commence at" is generally more formal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

begin from

This alternative is a more direct and concise way of saying start at a particular point.

commence at

This option offers a more formal tone to indicate initiating from a certain location or situation.

initiate from

This choice suggests a more deliberate and planned start at a specific point.

originate from

This highlights the source or origin as the starting point.

spring from

This alternative suggests that something arises or emerges from a certain point.

stem from

This option implies that something develops or arises as a consequence from a particular starting point.

arise from

This indicates that something begins or emerges from a certain place or situation.

set off from

This alternative suggests beginning a journey or activity from a specific location.

launch from

This phrase implies a more forceful and deliberate start from a particular point.

embark from

This suggestion is suited for indicating the beginning of a journey or endeavor from a given location.

FAQs

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

You can use "start where" to indicate the point at which an action or process should begin. For example, "Let's "start where we agree" and work from there."

What are some alternatives to "start where"?

Some alternatives include phrases like "begin from", "commence at", or "initiate from", depending on the specific context. For example, instead of "Start where you left off", you could say "begin from where you left off".

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

Yes, "begin where" is a perfectly acceptable alternative to "start where". Both phrases are grammatically correct and convey the same meaning, which is to commence an activity at a specified location or point. They are interchangeable, and the choice depends on stylistic preference.

Which is more formal, "start where" or "commence at"?

"Commence at" is generally considered more formal than "start where". While both are correct, "commence at" is often used in more professional or academic settings, while "start where" is suitable for everyday conversation and writing.