we can begin

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we can begin" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used when discussing starting a task or activity, or when making a suggestion. For example: "We can begin the meeting now." "After we finish lunch, we can begin working on the project." "If everyone is ready, we can begin the presentation." "We can begin by outlining our goals for the upcoming year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We can begin to close.

The New York Times

"Now we can begin".

The Guardian - Film

We can begin with inquiry.

University of California, Berkeley

We can begin this now.

Yale University

Maybe we can begin a different narrative.

The Guardian - Opinion

We can begin to gather information.

The New York Times - Sports

My fellow citizens, we can begin again.

The New York Times

"But we can begin the process.

The New York Times - Magazine

Now we can begin to focus on the future".

The New York Times

Today I hope that we can begin the healing.

The New York Times

I hope that we can begin that healing.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we can begin", ensure that the context clearly indicates what action or process is being started to avoid ambiguity. Be specific in your language.

Common error

Avoid using "we can begin" without specifying what you are beginning. For example, instead of saying "We can begin", state "We can begin the project now" to provide clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we can begin" primarily functions as a declarative statement indicating the ability and intention to initiate an action or process. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is both grammatically sound and frequently employed. Its structure allows for expressing readiness and opportunity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Academia

18%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we can begin" is a grammatically correct and versatile phrase widely used to indicate the start of an action or process. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability, and Ludwig's examples demonstrate its common occurrence across various contexts, including news, academia, and science. While its register is generally neutral, the surrounding language can adjust its formality. For alternative expressions, consider phrases like "we may start" or "we are able to start", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Ensure clarity by specifying what is being started to avoid ambiguity, and be mindful of the level of certainty you want to express when choosing between "we can begin" and other similar phrases.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are able to start

Emphasizes the capability to begin, focusing on the readiness and resources available.

we're set to initiate

Similar to "we are able to start", but places stronger emphasis on a scheduled or planned initiation.

we may start

Suggests a possibility of starting, implying slightly less certainty than "we can begin".

we're prepared to start

Highlights readiness and willingness to begin, indicating prior planning or preparation.

we could initiate

Indicates a conditional ability to start something, offering a softer, more suggestive tone.

we will get underway

Sounds more formal and procedural, often used in official or organized contexts.

we might commence

Implies a tentative start, suggesting a lower probability compared to "we can begin".

it's time to commence

Shifts focus to the appropriateness of the timing, suggesting that beginning is now opportune.

shall we start

Poses a question about beginning, inviting agreement or confirmation from others.

let's get going

Offers an informal and encouraging way to suggest beginning an activity.

FAQs

How can I use "we can begin" in a sentence?

Use "we can begin" to suggest initiating an action or process. For example, "We can begin the presentation now" or "We can begin by addressing the main concerns".

What is a more formal way to say "we can begin"?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives such as "we may commence", "we are able to start", or "we will get underway". These alternatives are often suitable for professional contexts.

What can I say instead of "we can begin" if I'm unsure?

If you want to express less certainty, you might use "we may start" or "we could initiate". These phrases suggest a possibility rather than a definitive start.

Is there a difference between "we can begin" and "we will begin"?

"We can begin" indicates an ability or permission to start, while "we will begin" expresses a definite intention or plan to start. The former suggests a possibility, whereas the latter implies a commitment.