to begin with this

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to begin with this" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a topic or point that you want to discuss first in a conversation or text. Example: "To begin with this, I would like to address the main issues we are facing in our project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Where to begin with this?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Well, to begin with, this sounds like a pattern.

The New Yorker

It really is hard to know where to begin with this one.

The Guardian

To begin with, this stretch of Staten Island has seen better days.

The New York Times

"The whip check wasn't strong to begin with — this thing was not a fait accompli.

The New Yorker

I don't know where to begin with this!" the official wrote on 9 October 2014.

The Guardian

To begin with, this will almost certainly be Maurizio Trombetta's final game as CFR coach.

The Guardian - Sport

To begin with, this means we have to move on from thinking that Englishness denotes ethnicity.

The Guardian - Opinion

To begin with, this is his first experience on the world stage.

The New York Times

"A new era is set to begin with this congress," Mr Ocalan reiterated yesterday.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

To begin with, this year we are opening applications to those students entering their second year and those who will be first years in the autumn.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to begin with this" to clearly signal the initial point in a discussion, argument, or explanation. This helps structure your writing and guides the reader through your thought process.

Common error

Avoid using "to begin with this" in overly casual conversations or informal writing, as it can sound stilted or overly formal. Opt for simpler alternatives like "to start" or "first" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to begin with this" functions as a prepositional phrase used adverbially to introduce the initial aspect or point of a discussion, argument, or explanation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature, providing numerous examples across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

21%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to begin with this" is a grammatically sound and frequently used way to introduce an initial point or aspect in a discussion or argument. Ludwig confirms its usability, providing ample examples across News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources. While it is suitable for formal writing, simpler alternatives may be preferred in casual contexts. Remember to use it strategically to guide your reader effectively. Alternatives such as "to start with this" or "firstly with this" can also be considered to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to start with this

Emphasizes initiation and sequence, similar to the main query but slightly less formal.

initially with this

Highlights the beginning stage, suitable for technical or process-oriented contexts.

firstly with this

Provides a formal, structured approach to introducing a sequence of points.

primarily with this

Underscores the main or most important aspect at the outset.

to commence with this

Offers a formal and somewhat ceremonial tone, suitable for official communications.

at the outset with this

Highlights the very beginning, often used in analytical or investigative contexts.

in the first place with this

Implies a fundamental reason or condition, emphasizing priority.

to begin here

Offers a shorter, more direct way to indicate the starting point.

let's begin with this

Introduces a slightly more conversational and inviting tone.

by way of introduction

Provides a formal introduction to a broader topic or discussion.

FAQs

How can I use "to begin with this" in a sentence?

The phrase "to begin with this" is used to introduce an initial point or aspect of a topic. For example, "To begin with this, let's address the core issues of the project."

What are some alternatives to "to begin with this"?

You can use alternatives such as "to start with this", "initially with this", or "firstly with this" depending on the specific context.

Is "to begin with this" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "to begin with this" is suitable for formal writing. However, ensure that the level of formality matches the overall tone of your piece. In highly formal contexts, consider stronger alternatives like "to commence with this".

What's the difference between "to begin with this" and "to begin with"?

"To begin with this" is used to specifically introduce the first point related to something already mentioned, whereas "to begin with" is a more general phrase to start a discussion without a direct reference. "To begin with" is broader and less specific.