starts working

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "starts working" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone beginning a task or job. For example: "John started working as a software engineer two weeks ago."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The mind starts working.

The New Yorker

Ms. Tennenbaum starts working the phones.

The New York Times - Health

Your mind starts working on you: No, you're starving.

The New Yorker

A new guy starts working at your company.

The New Yorker

"When he comes into the house, everything starts working again".

The New York Times

Harry Wolff, a chemical engineer, starts working at a chemical plant in Ridgewood, Queens.

The New Yorker

If the CIS really starts working properly, an early result may be Georgia's withdrawal from it.

The Economist

Either he starts working for us, or we'll find someone who will".

The New York Times

When the financial system starts working again, ATMs will dispense drachma notes.

Independent

Kingsley wonders whether, if he starts working for BP, they might have an in-house band.

Independent

"Ovie, when he starts scoring goals, he gets confidence, he starts working harder.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "starts working" to describe the initial phase of a process, project, or a person's employment or task. It implies the beginning of active effort or functionality.

Common error

Avoid using "starts working" when you mean to convey the continuation or consistency of work. For ongoing work, phrases like "continues to work" or "is working" are more accurate. For example, instead of saying "He starts working every day until 5pm", say "He works every day until 5pm".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "starts working" primarily functions as a verb phrase, indicating the commencement of an action. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in various contexts, from systems initiating operation to individuals beginning employment or tasks. It signifies the transition into an active state.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

28%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Huffington Post

6%

TechCrunch

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "starts working" is a versatile verb phrase used to denote the beginning of an action, process, or employment. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently used. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, media, and scientific writing. While alternatives like ""begins to function"" and ""commences operation"" exist, understanding the specific nuance you wish to convey is crucial. The key is to use "starts working" when emphasizing the initial phase rather than the continuation of an activity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

begins to function

Emphasizes the initiation of functionality rather than effort.

becomes operational

Highlights the state of being ready and able to function.

commences operation

Highlights the formal start of an operational process.

gets underway

Indicates the official commencement of a planned event or activity.

initiates activity

Focuses on the beginning of any kind of action or process.

enters service

Specifically used when referring to machinery or systems beginning their active use.

gets going

Informal way to express starting an activity or process.

activates

Emphasizes the process of making something active or functional.

kicks off

Suggests an energetic or enthusiastic beginning.

launches into action

Implies a swift and decisive start.

FAQs

How can I use "starts working" in a sentence?

Use "starts working" to indicate the commencement of an action or process. For example, "After the update, the software "begins to function" correctly", or "He "commences operation" as a consultant next week".

What are some alternatives to "starts working"?

You can use alternatives like "begins to function", ""commences operation"", or "initiates activity" depending on the context. Each alternative offers a slightly different nuance.

When is it appropriate to use "starts working" versus "is working"?

"Starts working" is suitable when referring to the initial moment or period when something begins its function or when someone commences their job or a task. "Is working" is more appropriate for describing a state of ongoing activity.

Can "starts working" be used for both people and objects?

Yes, "starts working" can be used to describe both people and objects. For example, "The employee "gets going" on the project" (person) and "The engine "becomes operational"" (object).