started doing something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "started doing something" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is typically used when describing someone's action or transition from not doing something to taking action. Example: "Yesterday, I started doing my taxes and I'm almost finished!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

It's time the federal government started doing something about it.

The New York Times

The problem was, he'd started doing something else instead.

The Guardian - Music

"Maybe he started doing something different when he threw.

The New York Times - Sports

Then, two months ago, she abruptly started doing something else.

The New Yorker

"But it's good that they have started doing something".

The New York Times

We want to get started doing something but there's nothing to do".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

I was going to start doing something.

The New York Times

If you guys don't start doing something.

The Guardian

If he hasn't, he should start doing something".

The New York Times

It's time to start doing something about superbugs.

MIT Technology Review

Unless he starts doing something soon, Fred's toast.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "started doing something", ensure the context clearly indicates the specific action being initiated. Providing detail enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "started doing something" without specifying the action. Vague statements can confuse the reader; always clarify what was started.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "started doing something" functions as a verb phrase indicating the commencement of an action or activity. Ludwig provides many examples where the phrase is used to introduce a new behavior or course of action.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Academia

16%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "started doing something" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to indicate the beginning of an action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is commonly used in various contexts, particularly in news, media, and academic settings. When using the phrase, clarity is key; specify the action to avoid vagueness. While many sources show this phrase is considered appropriate, using more specific alternatives can sometimes enhance communication. Remember, consistency and clarity should be the priority.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

began to act

Focuses on the initiation of an action, similar to the original phrase but more concise.

set about doing something

Implies a focused and determined approach to starting an activity.

took action

Emphasizes the act of taking steps to address a situation.

moved to action

Highlights the transition from inactivity to taking action.

initiated activity

More formal and emphasizes the commencement of a process or project.

undertook a task

Emphasizes the acceptance and beginning of a specific task.

embarked on a course of action

Suggests a deliberate and planned undertaking.

launched into action

Suggests an energetic and immediate start.

commenced operations

Focuses on the beginning of a business or organizational activity.

got down to business

Implies a serious and focused start to a task or activity.

FAQs

How can I use "started doing something" in a sentence?

You can use "started doing something" to describe the beginning of an action. For example, "After the meeting, he "started doing something" about the project."

What are some alternatives to "started doing something"?

Alternatives include "began to act", "took action", or "initiated activity" depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "started doing something" and "took action"?

"Started doing something" describes the commencement of an activity, while ""took action"" emphasizes the active step of addressing an issue or situation.

Is "started doing something" formal or informal?

"Started doing something" is generally neutral and appropriate for both formal and informal contexts. The specific context will determine the overall tone.