start-up

USAGE SUMMARY

'start-up' is a correct and usable word in written English.
It is typically used when referring to an emerging business or company. For example, "She recently started her own start-up company to develop innovative technology solutions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Start-Up: Crowdfunding?

The New York Times

Start-Up: Dirt Cheap?

The New York Times

The start-up failed.

The New York Times - Tech

You are the start-up.

The New York Times

"We're not a start-up.

The New York Times

Start-Up Chile gains traction.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Let's start up front.

The New York Times

Don't start up with soldiers.

The New Yorker

£2.1bn start up costs.

BBC

Start up.

Science Magazine

Start up Visual Studio.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "start-up" as an adjective, ensure it clearly modifies the noun it precedes, such as in "start-up costs" or "start-up culture".

Common error

Avoid using "start-up" interchangeably with established companies; the term specifically refers to new ventures, typically in their early stages of development and high-growth potential.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "start-up" primarily functions as a noun, referring to a newly established business, often with innovative ideas or technology. It can also function as an adjective, modifying other nouns to describe something related to a new company, as seen in the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Wiki

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

15%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "start-up" is a versatile phrase primarily functioning as a noun or adjective to describe a newly established, often innovative, business. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts. While generally neutral in register, its tone can shift to professional or even informal depending on the setting. The usage pattern analysis reveals its prominence in News & Media, Wiki, and Science domains. To ensure clarity, always consider the context and target audience when employing the term "start-up", being mindful not to interchange it with established businesses.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

new business

Focuses on the business aspect, omitting the implication of novelty or innovation.

emerging company

Emphasizes the growth potential and early stage of the company.

new venture

Highlights the risk and potential reward associated with a new business endeavor.

nascent firm

More formal and emphasizes the early stage and potential for development of the firm.

launching company

Focuses on the act of starting the business, rather than the state of being a new business.

newly established business

Highlights the recent creation of the business.

early-stage enterprise

Emphasizes the developmental phase of the business venture.

fledgling company

Implies a lack of experience and a need for nurturing.

incubator company

Suggests the company is receiving support to develop and grow.

beginning business

Simply refers to a business that is in its initial phase of operation.

FAQs

How can I use "start-up" in a sentence?

You can use "start-up" to refer to a new company or venture. For example, "She recently joined a promising tech "start-up"." It can also be used as an adjective, such as in "start-up costs".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "start-up"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "new business", "emerging company", or "new venture".

What's the difference between a "start-up" and a small business?

While both are new businesses, a "start-up" typically implies a focus on innovation, technology, and rapid growth potential. A small business might be a local store or service that doesn't necessarily aim for rapid scaling.

Is it correct to use "start-up" as an adjective?

Yes, "start-up" can be used as an adjective to describe something related to a new company, such as "start-up culture" or "start-up investment".