wait to start

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "wait to start" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it in any context when you are discussing something that will start at a later date or time. For example: We will wait to start the project until the weather is more suitable for outdoor work.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I couldn't wait to start working.

Independent

He didn't wait to start living.

The New York Times

I can't wait to start broadcasting here".

The Guardian

I simply can't wait to start".

The Guardian

I can't wait to start doing that with content.

The New Yorker

"I just can't wait to start practicing," he said.

The New York Times

It is not because they cannot wait to start work.

The Economist

She was so breathtaking, I couldn't wait to start working.

Independent

"I can't wait to start a game again".

Independent

I can't wait to start exploring those corridors".

Independent

Scott Brosius couldn't wait to start this season.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "wait to start" when you want to emphasize anticipation or a planned delay before beginning an activity. This can create a sense of excitement or strategic planning.

Common error

Don't use "wait to start" when immediate action is necessary. Instead, use phrases that convey urgency, like "begin immediately" or "start now".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "wait to start" functions as an infinitive phrase, typically used after auxiliary verbs or modal verbs to express intention, anticipation, or a planned delay. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Science

11%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "wait to start" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to indicate a planned delay before commencing an action. Ludwig confirms its correctness and provides numerous examples from reputable sources. While versatile, it's best suited for neutral contexts and should be avoided when immediate action is required. Consider alternatives like "defer commencement" for formal settings or focusing on what is being delayed rather than delaying it. By keeping these points in mind, you can confidently and accurately use "wait to start" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hold off on starting

Focuses on postponing the act of beginning something.

delay beginning

Emphasizes the postponement of the initial phase.

postpone starting

Highlights the act of rescheduling the commencement.

defer commencement

More formal, indicating a more official delay of the start.

put off beginning

Suggests procrastination or reluctance to start.

suspend initiation

Implies a temporary halt to the starting process.

refrain from initiating

Emphasizes a conscious decision not to begin yet.

pause before beginning

Focuses on a brief interruption before starting.

take a break before starting

Suggests a rest period before the commencement.

hesitate to initiate

Indicates uncertainty or reluctance in starting.

FAQs

How can I use "wait to start" in a sentence?

You can use "wait to start" to express a planned delay, as in "We will "wait to start" the project until next week".

What's a more formal way to say "wait to start"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "defer commencement" or "postpone initiation".

What can I say instead of "I can't wait to start"?

You can use alternatives like "eager to begin", "excited to commence", or "anxious to initiate" depending on the context.

When is it inappropriate to use "wait to start"?

It's inappropriate to use "wait to start" when immediate action is needed. In such cases, use phrases that convey urgency, such as "begin immediately" or "start now".