the event started

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the event started" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate the beginning of a specific event or occurrence in a narrative or report. Example: "The event started promptly at 10 AM, and attendees began to gather in the main hall."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

The event started at midnight on a Saturday.

The New York Times - Magazine

Before the event started, he took a tour — with no press accompanying him — of the factory.

The New York Times

"I'm willing to let him convince me," he said just before the event started.

The New York Times

Check the newspaper and TV coverage from the week the event started to the present.

The Guardian - Sport

The event started with presentations from four expert panellists, who examined different aspects of malaria research.

The Guardian

After Pichai's introduction, the event started to resemble a more traditional product launch.

The New Yorker

In mid-October, Lufthansa flights to Zurich for the event started at $249.

The New York Times

The event started with two hippies singing about global warming in reedy voices.

The Guardian

For me, the second day of the event started with a low and ended with a high.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

The event starts with an introduction in the Clare gatehouse.

Independent

He added: "The event starts to hurt halfway through it.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the event started", ensure the context clearly defines which event is being referenced to avoid ambiguity. Use specific details such as date, time, or location to provide clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "the event started" without specifying which event you are referring to. Instead of saying, "The event started, and things went wrong", specify the event: "The conference started, and the Wi-Fi went down".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the event started" functions as an independent clause, typically serving as a statement of fact. It asserts the commencement of a specific event. As confirmed by Ludwig, this is a standard construction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Wiki

12%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Science

7%

Science & Research

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the event started" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to indicate the commencement of an event. Ludwig confirms its validity and provides numerous examples across diverse contexts, including News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science. While versatile, clarity is key; always specify the event to avoid ambiguity. Alternative phrases like "the event commenced" offer a more formal tone, whereas "the event kicked off" provides a more informal option. Pay attention to usage patterns and avoid vague references to ensure effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the event commenced

Uses a more formal synonym for 'started'.

the event began

Employs a different but synonymous verb to indicate the start.

the function initiated

Replaces 'event' with 'function' and 'started' with 'initiated'.

the meeting got underway

Uses an idiomatic expression to convey the beginning of a meeting.

the proceedings opened

Replaces 'event' with 'proceedings' and 'started' with 'opened'.

the activity kicked off

Uses a more informal, energetic expression.

the show got on the road

Idiomatic phrase suggesting the beginning of a journey or performance.

the game was on

Indicates the start of a game or competitive activity.

the ball got rolling

Idiomatic phrase suggesting the start of a process or activity.

the curtain went up

Specifically indicates the start of a theatrical performance.

FAQs

What is a more formal way to say "the event started"?

A more formal way to express the same idea is to say "the event commenced" or "the proceedings began".

How can I add more detail when saying "the event started"?

You can add details such as time, location, or specific activities to clarify the context. For example, "The event started at 7 PM with a keynote speech".

What is an informal alternative to "the event started"?

Informal alternatives include "the event kicked off" or "the party got started".

Is it better to use "the event began" or "the event started"?

Both "the event began" and "the event started" are grammatically correct and generally interchangeable. The choice depends on the desired tone; "began" may sound slightly more formal.