starting to start

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "starting to start" is grammatically correct but may be considered redundant in written English.
It can be used when indicating the initial phase of beginning an action or process, though it may be more effective to use a more concise expression. Example: "I am starting to start my workout routine next week."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

"At this time of year, we go start to start," Torre said.

The New York Times

"For me it was such a good way to start, to start with a silent movie, to start with the beginning of the cinema," she said.

The New York Times

And after a while, you start to start to say, "Am I even a person anymore, or a writer?

Huffington Post

Click "Start" to start ripping.

WikiHow

Press start to start timer.

WikiHow

Tap on the "Touch to Start" to start the game.

WikiHow

Click on Get Started to start building your website.

WikiHow

Tap "Start" to start your time and start doing the workout.

WikiHow

Click the big button "Start" to start ripping DVD to iPad 2 on Mac.

WikiHow

Check "Open folder when conversion completed" and click "Start" to start the iPad video conversion.

WikiHow

Once you become experienced and your work improves, then you can start to start to sell your paintings!

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "starting to start", consider if the double emphasis is necessary for the context. Often, a single "starting" or a more specific verb can convey the meaning more effectively.

Common error

Avoid using "starting to start" in formal writing where conciseness is valued. Redundancy can make your writing seem less polished and professional.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "starting to start" functions as a compound verb phrase indicating the very initial phase of commencing an action. While grammatically valid, Ludwig indicates it's often perceived as redundant and might benefit from more concise alternatives.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while grammatically correct, the phrase "starting to start" is often considered redundant in English writing. Ludwig AI points out that it serves to emphasize the beginning of an action but can often be replaced by more concise alternatives such as simply "starting" or other verbs that more precisely describe the initiation. For formal writing, avoiding such redundancy is advisable to maintain clarity and conciseness. As Ludwig's analysis and lack of direct examples suggest, opting for more specific and less repetitive phrasing enhances overall writing quality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

commencing to begin

Replaces both 'starting' instances with 'commencing', providing a more formal tone but retaining the core meaning of initiating a beginning.

initiating the start

Uses 'initiating' as a more active verb to replace the first 'starting', emphasizing the act of setting something in motion.

beginning to commence

Swaps 'starting' with 'beginning' and 'start' with 'commence', slightly altering the formality while maintaining the initial action concept.

about to initiate

Focuses on the imminence of the start, indicating that the action is on the verge of beginning.

preparing to launch

Emphasizes readiness and anticipation, suggesting that the beginning is well-prepared and imminent.

getting ready to initiate

Highlights the preparation phase before the actual start, adding a layer of anticipation and readiness.

setting out to begin

Implies a deliberate and planned start, emphasizing the intention and direction of the beginning.

on the verge of starting

Indicates that the beginning is very close, almost at the point of initiating.

gearing up to start

Focuses on the preparation and mobilization of resources before the start.

making preparations to begin

Highlights the preparatory actions taken to ensure a successful start.

FAQs

How can I use "starting to start" in a sentence?

While grammatically correct, "starting to start" is redundant. Consider using just "starting" or a more descriptive verb. For example, instead of "I am starting to start the project", try "I am beginning the project".

What can I say instead of "starting to start"?

You can use alternatives like "beginning to commence", "initiating the start", or simply "starting" depending on the context.

Is "starting to start" grammatically incorrect?

No, "starting to start" is grammatically correct but may be considered redundant in formal writing. It's often more effective to use a more concise expression.

When is it appropriate to use "starting to start"?

While generally discouraged due to its redundancy, "starting to start" might be used for emphasis in informal speech or creative writing where the double emphasis adds a specific effect. However, in most contexts, it's better to opt for clearer alternatives.