started into

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "started into" is not standard in written English and may be considered incorrect.
It is typically used in informal contexts to indicate beginning an action or process, but it lacks clarity and precision. Example: "She started into her presentation with enthusiasm."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Tears started into his eyes.

The New Yorker

And then started into motion?

The Guardian - Arts

We started into the canyon about 6 o'clock.

The New York Times - Travel

Janet Reno came in and started into her irresistible shtick and I burst out laughing.

The New Yorker

He started into a long story about how Joni Mitchell had once lived in the house.

The New York Times

Simultaneously, the government started into its programme of wage cuts and closures in the nationalised industries.

The Guardian - Opinion

Then the case was called and we started into the courtroom.

The New Yorker

Then I thought maybe it was someone who had got injured, so I started into the woods to find him.

The New Yorker

When a woman in a Kentucky Derby-style hat started into a screed about "homosexual extremism," he had had enough.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

"I think it'll be really fun for us and get us kick-started into writing new songs together, or demoing stuff and sharing them".

The Guardian - Music

Three starts into his Mets career, he already is.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the start of a song or performance, use "began playing" or "launched into" instead of "started into" for a more polished expression.

Common error

Avoid using "started into" in academic papers or professional reports; its informality can undermine your credibility. Opt for stronger, more precise verbs to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "started into" functions as a verb phrase followed by a preposition, often used to indicate the beginning of an action or process. However, according to Ludwig AI, it is generally considered grammatically incorrect and less precise than alternatives.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Science

8%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while "started into" is frequently encountered, particularly in news and media, Ludwig AI indicates it's generally considered grammatically incorrect for formal use. More precise and polished alternatives such as "began to", "initiated", or "embarked on" are recommended for enhancing clarity and maintaining credibility. Therefore, while readily understood, opting for alternatives elevates the sophistication and correctness of your writing. Use the phrase with caution, considering your audience and the desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

began to

Replaces "started into" with a more standard and grammatically sound construction indicating the commencement of an action.

initiated

Implies a formal or official beginning, suitable when "started into" suggests a process or project's launch.

commenced

A more formal synonym for began, useful in professional or academic contexts instead of "started into".

embarked on

Suitable when the action suggests a journey or undertaking, providing a stronger sense of engagement than "started into".

delved into

Suggests a deeper exploration or investigation, useful if "started into" implies a detailed examination.

launched into

Implies a rapid or enthusiastic start, often used when the action is energetic or sudden, unlike the more neutral "started into".

proceeded to

Suggests a logical sequence of actions, more structured than "started into".

set about

Indicates a deliberate and methodical approach, differing from the more general sense of "started into".

took to

Can imply a habitual or enthusiastic beginning, adding a layer of inclination not present in "started into".

ventured into

Suggests an element of risk or uncertainty, appropriate when the action involves exploration or innovation, unlike the plain sense of "started into".

FAQs

What's a more formal alternative to "started into"?

For formal contexts, consider using "began to", "initiated", or "commenced" instead of "started into".

Is "started into" grammatically correct?

While commonly used, "started into" is generally considered less grammatically sound than alternatives like "began to" or "embarked on", especially in formal writing.

How can I use "started into" in a sentence?

While not preferred in formal writing, you might say "He started into a long story" in casual conversation. However, "began telling" a story is a more precise alternative.

What's the difference between "started into" and "started on"?

"Started into" attempts to convey beginning something, which is better expressed by alternatives like "began". "Started on" typically refers to beginning work on a specific task or project.