we embarked upon

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we embarked upon" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate the beginning of a journey, project, or undertaking. Example: "After months of planning, we embarked upon our journey to explore the ancient ruins."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

"We embarked upon a peaceful and prayerful campaign," she said.

The Guardian

In the early 1990s, we embarked upon a third era-environmental justice.

Columbia University

In fact, we embarked upon the creation of an unprecedented consumer culture – of clothes, televisions, electronics, mobile phones, cars and holidays.

The Guardian - Opinion

It was a blast, Chief was a natural, and we both thrived on the partnership as we embarked upon each new equestrian adventure.

The New York Times

When I met Neil Gaiman and we embarked upon our cautious let's-date-each-other phase, I made it really clear that I was always going to need time alone, to create, be with my own thoughts, songs and work.

The Guardian

"Reports Offer Inside Look at City Agency's Lapses" (front page, Nov. 1) ignores much of the progress that the Department of Environmental Protection has made since 2001, when we embarked upon an aggressive campaign to improve health and safety procedures and assure the quality of the city's drinking water.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

Now we embark upon the West End.

Independent

We embark upon this reform effort as the financial industry has become ever more concentrated.

Harvard University

"As we embark upon the next great chapter of human space exploration, we stand on the shoulders of the extraordinary men we recognize today," he said.

The New York Times

There is some suggestion that if we undertake an apportionment of the waters of this interstate river, we embark upon an enterprise involving administrative functions beyond our province.

Cornell University

And so, filling our magic bowl with water and scattering around some dead petunias, we embark upon director Toby Hayne's ambitious adaptation of Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell, Susanna Clarke's girthsome doorstop, a bewilderingly detailed "tale of the fantastic", as Neil Gaiman so gracefully described it.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To maintain consistency in tone, use "we embarked upon" in contexts that require a formal or semi-formal voice, like reports, presentations, or academic papers.

Common error

Avoid using "we embarked upon" in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "we started" or "we began" to keep the tone appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we embarked upon" functions as a verbal phrase, indicating the initiation of a journey, project, or activity. It sets the stage for a narrative or explanation, signaling the beginning of a significant undertaking. Ludwig confirms the phrase is grammatically sound and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we embarked upon" is a grammatically sound and relatively common way to express the beginning of a journey, project, or significant undertaking. According to Ludwig, the expression is correct and usable in written English. While suitable for news, scientific, and academic contexts, it should be used judiciously in more informal settings. Alternatives such as "we started" or "we began" might be more appropriate for casual conversation. The phrase is used for introducing a new endeavor or launching an important project.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we began

This alternative is shorter and less formal, suitable for simpler contexts.

we commenced

This alternative is slightly more formal than "we began" but still less so than the original phrase.

we initiated

This alternative emphasizes the starting or launching aspect of the activity.

we started

This is a very common and informal alternative to "we embarked upon".

we undertook

This alternative suggests a more serious or challenging endeavor.

we set out on

This alternative evokes a sense of journey or expedition.

we launched into

This alternative emphasizes the energetic start of something.

we dived into

This alternative indicates an enthusiastic and immersive beginning.

we took up

This alternative suggests adopting a task or responsibility.

we plunged into

This alternative conveys a sense of impulsiveness and enthusiasm.

FAQs

What does "we embarked upon" mean?

The phrase "we embarked upon" means that a group of people started a journey, project, or other significant undertaking. It implies a planned and purposeful beginning.

What can I say instead of "we embarked upon"?

You can use alternatives like "we began", "we started", or "we initiated" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "we embarked upon" in a casual conversation?

While grammatically correct, "we embarked upon" is quite formal. In casual conversations, it's better to use simpler alternatives like "we started" or "we began".

How does "we embarked upon" differ from "we started"?

"We embarked upon" suggests a more deliberate and significant undertaking than "we started". The former implies more planning and a greater sense of purpose.