we began using

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we began using" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate the start of a practice, method, or tool that was adopted at a certain point in time. Example: "After much consideration, we began using a new project management software to improve our workflow."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

In conjunction to this we began using a fungicide called Zerotol to help control this problem.

Cornell University

Starting in 1898, we began using our military to secure new territory and markets overseas.

The Washington Post

We were an extended family before we began using the term.

The New York Times

In the 30's, when we began using the aquifer for irrigation, it was equal in volume to Lake Huron.

The New York Times - Books

We began using biodiesel in April 2010 and used 32,000 gallons of fuel in FY2011," Brutti says.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

This, it seems, is why we are hearing "rabbit hole" so often: somewhere along the line, we began using it to mean something new.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

Why cant we begin using the SW Dessert to grow Sweet Sorghum for Ethanol?

University of California, Berkeley

Is it about the choice, or is there a line that must be crossed before we begin using the female pronoun: when Manning begins hormone therapy, say, or undergoes an operation — or maybe just schedules one?

The New Yorker

How can we begin using the Framework to address the unique information needs of music students?

Johns Hopkins University

But what happens if you're unable to press buttons or, more likely, we begin using robots and other tools to interact with the real world?

TechCrunch

Moreover, it is evident that as soon as we begin using a new drug or class, the bacteria begin to evolve mechanisms to resist its activity.

EBioMedicine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we began using", specify the time frame or context to provide clarity. For example, "In 2010, we began using cloud storage for our data."

Common error

Ensure that the "we" in "we began using" is clearly defined to prevent confusion about who initiated the use. Especially if the surrounding text introduces different groups or entities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we began using" functions as a verb phrase indicating the commencement of a specific action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable expression. The examples show this phrase introduces the adoption of tools, methods, or practices.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

35%

Academia

23%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we began using" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to indicate the start of employing a particular method, tool, or practice. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is suitable for various contexts, including news, science, and academic writing. While it maintains a neutral tone, slightly more formal alternatives exist. When employing this phrase, clarity is key—ensure the time frame and referent of "we" are well-defined.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we started using

Simple change of the verb "began" to "started", indicating a slightly less formal tone.

we commenced using

Replaces "began" with "commenced", suggesting a more formal initiation.

we initiated the use of

More formal and verbose, focusing on the initiation of use.

we adopted the use of

Emphasizes adoption as a deliberate decision.

we implemented

Focuses on the implementation aspect of using something.

we started to employ

Uses "employ" instead of "use", suggesting a more deliberate and strategic application.

we turned to using

Indicates a change of approach or solution.

we transitioned to using

Highlights a shift or changeover in usage.

we introduced the use of

Focuses on the act of introducing something into use.

we have started utilizing

Expresses the action of starting to use something with a focus on the current relevance.

FAQs

How can I use "we began using" in a sentence?

Use "we began using" to indicate the start of utilizing a specific method, tool, or practice. For example: "After careful evaluation, we began using a new CRM system."

What are some alternatives to "we began using"?

Alternatives include "we started using", "we commenced using", or "we initiated the use of", depending on the level of formality and context.

Is "we began using" formal or informal?

"We began using" is generally considered neutral in tone, suitable for most professional and academic contexts. More formal alternatives exist, such as "we commenced using".

What's the difference between "we began using" and "we started using"?

While both phrases are largely interchangeable, "we began using" might imply a slightly more deliberate or formal initiation compared to "we started using".