starting point

USAGE SUMMARY

"starting point" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to refer to the beginning of a process or discussion, or the basic starting information or facts. For example, "The report provided a good starting point for our discussion of the issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Need a starting point?

Independent

That was their starting point.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Barber: — thrilling starting point.

The New York Times

That was the starting point.

The New York Times

It was a starting point.

The New York Times - Sports

A starting point for stories.

The New Yorker

My starting point is different.

Independent

He's Houston's starting point guard.

The New York Times

That was our starting point.

The New York Times - Arts

What's his starting point?

The Guardian

Back to starting point.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "starting point", ensure the context clearly indicates what is beginning. For example, specify the task, discussion, or journey for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "starting point" without specifying what it is the starting point of. Without context, the phrase can be ambiguous and confusing for the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "starting point" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It identifies the place, idea, or moment where something begins, as Ludwig examples show: "That was their starting point" and "That was our starting point".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Wiki

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "starting point" is a versatile noun phrase widely used to denote the beginning of a process, journey, or discussion. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, including news, media, science and wikis. While applicable in both formal and informal settings, it's most impactful when the context clearly specifies what is beginning. For richer expression, alternatives like "point of origin", "outset", or "initial phase" can be considered. Remember to avoid ambiguity by clarifying what exactly the "starting point" refers to for optimal clarity and comprehension.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

point of origin

Directly indicates where something comes from or begins.

outset

Highlights the very beginning or commencement.

initial phase

Focuses on the beginning stage of a process or project.

genesis

Emphasizes the origin or creation point.

inception

Refers to the start or commencement of an organization or idea.

takeoff point

Similar to launching pad, but can be more figurative.

launching pad

Suggests a place or event from which something is launched or initiated.

springboard

Suggests something that provides impetus or momentum for a beginning.

ground zero

Implies the absolute beginning, often in the context of rebuilding or starting anew.

rudimentary stage

Highlights the beginning with a particular emphasis of being in an early phase of development.

FAQs

How to use "starting point" in a sentence?

You can use "starting point" to indicate the beginning of a process, discussion, or journey. For example, "The meeting served as a "starting point" for our project" or "Let's use this data as our "starting point"".

What can I say instead of "starting point"?

You can use alternatives like "point of origin", "outset", or "initial phase" depending on the context.

Is "starting point" formal or informal?

The phrase "starting point" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding language and the overall tone of the communication.

What's the difference between "starting point" and "beginning"?

While both refer to the commencement of something, "starting point" often implies a specific location, idea, or piece of information from which something begins. "Beginning" is a more general term for the start of anything.