to commence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to commence" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate the beginning of an action or event. Example: "The ceremony is set to commence at noon, so please arrive early."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Then it's time to commence cupping.

The New York Times - Food

Construction is expected to commence next summer.

The New York Times

The feast is now ready to commence.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Allow the blame game to commence.

The Guardian - Opinion

Now, at long last, the ceremony is about to commence.

The Guardian - Film

She reveled in her unabashed willingness to commence hostilities.

The New York Times - Books

Wright went back upstairs to commence the first take.

The New Yorker

Morde vowed that he would return soon "to commence excavation".

The New Yorker

Production on Anomalisa is expected to commence in November.

The Guardian - Film

Martin was due to commence testosterone treatment last week.

The Guardian - Opinion

Then it was time for the game to commence.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to commence" in formal writing where a more sophisticated tone is desired. For instance, in reports, legal documents, or official correspondence, it adds a level of professionalism.

Common error

Avoid using "to commence" in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "to start" or "to begin" to maintain a natural and approachable tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to commence" functions primarily as an infinitive verb phrase, indicating the beginning of an action or event. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to commence" is a grammatically sound and frequently used infinitive phrase that means "to begin" or "to start". Ludwig AI confirms its appropriateness for formal contexts, such as news reporting, scientific writing, and business communications. While "to commence" is widely accepted and understood, it's best reserved for situations where a more sophisticated tone is desired, and simpler alternatives like "to start" or "to begin" are preferable in informal settings. Knowing when and how to use "to commence" can enhance the clarity and professionalism of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to begin

This is a more common and slightly less formal synonym for "to commence".

to start

This is the most common and informal synonym for "to commence".

to initiate

Implies taking the first step in a process or endeavor.

to launch

Often used when starting something new or significant, like a project or product.

to undertake

Suggests starting a task or responsibility, often a significant one.

to embark on

Implies starting a journey or venture, often with some uncertainty.

to set about

Indicates starting a task or activity with a specific approach.

to trigger

Means to initiate a reaction or process.

to inaugurate

Often used for formal beginnings or ceremonies.

to instigate

Suggests initiating something, often something that might be controversial or lead to conflict.

FAQs

What does "to commence" mean?

"To commence" means "to begin" or "to start". It is often used in formal contexts.

When is it appropriate to use "to commence"?

It is appropriate to use "to commence" in formal settings such as official documents, reports, and formal correspondence where a more sophisticated tone is desired.

What are some alternatives to "to commence"?

Alternatives to "to commence" include "to begin", "to start", "to initiate", or "to undertake" depending on the specific context.

Is "to commence" more formal than "to begin" or "to start"?

Yes, "to commence" is generally considered more formal than "to begin" or "to start". It is often preferred in professional or academic writing.