things started happening

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "things started happening" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where events or actions began to occur, often unexpectedly or with a sense of excitement. Example: "After the new policy was implemented, things started happening quickly, and the team was overwhelmed with requests."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Things started happening.

The New York Times

Then things started happening.

The New York Times - Arts

But then things started happening".

The New York Times - Travel

Soon odd things started happening.

The New York Times

Miraculous things started happening.

The New Yorker

At that point things started happening fast.

The New York Times

"And then other little things started happening here and there".

BBC

"I did a rabbit cartoon for Penthouse #3 and then things started happening".

Independent

When negative things started happening, I wasn't able to find the solution".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

"They react when things start happening.

The New Yorker

When brains and cash move in rather than out, they figured, good things start happening.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "things started happening" to indicate a turning point or the commencement of a notable series of events. This phrase is effective in narratives or when describing a shift in circumstances.

Common error

Avoid using "things started happening" in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and descriptive language such as "events commenced" or "developments unfolded."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "things started happening" functions as a clause indicating the commencement of a series of events or actions. As indicated by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used. This is demonstrated by the numerous examples from various sources, showcasing its versatility in describing different situations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Wiki

6%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "things started happening" is a versatile phrase used to indicate the beginning of a sequence of events, often marking a turning point. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used, although it tends to be more suitable for neutral to informal contexts such as news reports and general narratives. While it appears frequently in News & Media sources, its use in formal academic writing is less common, where more precise alternatives are preferable. For example, in a formal context, events began to unfold might be better suited. Knowing when and how to use it can significantly improve clarity and impact in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

events began to unfold

Emphasizes a gradual revelation or development of events.

circumstances began to shift

Highlights a change in the overall situation or conditions.

developments commenced

A more formal way of saying things began to happen, suitable for professional contexts.

action started to unfold

Focuses on the beginning of a series of actions or events.

the ball started rolling

An idiomatic expression indicating that an activity or process has begun.

the tide began to turn

Suggests a shift in momentum or fortune.

things got underway

Implies the commencement of a planned activity or event.

activity sprang into motion

Emphasizes a sudden or energetic start of activity.

the process was initiated

Highlights the commencement of a specific process or procedure.

the dominoes began to fall

Suggests that one event triggered a series of consequential events.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "things started happening" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives such as "events began to unfold", "developments commenced", or "circumstances began to shift". These options provide a more sophisticated and precise description of the onset of events.

Is "things started happening" appropriate for academic writing?

While grammatically correct, "things started happening" may be too informal for academic writing. Opt for more precise and descriptive alternatives such as "events began to unfold" or "developments commenced" for a more suitable tone.

What's the difference between "events began to unfold" and "things started happening"?

"Events began to unfold" typically suggests a gradual and systematic revelation of events, whereas "things started happening" is more general and can imply a sudden or unexpected onset of activity.

Can "things started happening" refer to negative events?

Yes, "things started happening" can refer to both positive and negative events. The context determines the connotation. For instance, "bad things started happening" indicates a series of negative occurrences.