we shall commence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we shall commence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in formal contexts to indicate the beginning of an action or event. Example: "After careful consideration, we shall commence the project next week."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Hopefully we'll see the beta go public very soon and then the next phase of the pirate movement shall commence!

TechCrunch

"Because time is of the essence, the recount shall commence immediately.

The New York Times

The work shall commence early next year and will be done in phases," he said.

The Guardian

Because time is of the essence, the Circuit Court shall commence the tabulation of the Miami-Dade ballots immediately.

The New York Times

Such inspections shall commence not later than twelve months after November 8 , 1984

Cornell University

No Federalreserve bank shall commence business with a subscribed capital less than $4,000,000.

Cornell University

A review of the status of each individual currently detained at Guantanamo (Review) shall commence immediately.

Cornell University

At the end of his remarks, Judge Sullivan said, "The Court shall commence criminal contempt proceedings against the original prosecution team, including William Welch, Brenda Morris, Joseph Bottini, Nicholas Marsh, James Goeke and Edward Sullivan".

The New Yorker

THIS Act shall commence, and be in force, from and after the ___ day of ___ in the year ____

Cornell University

The Under Secretary shall commence any roadmapping identified pursuant to subsection (a)(1) not later than January 2007.

Cornell University

The salary of a chief of mission shall commence upon the effective date of appointment to that position.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we shall commence" in formal settings where a traditional or legal tone is desired. However, consider that more contemporary alternatives like "we will begin" are often clearer and more accessible to modern audiences.

Common error

Avoid using "we shall commence" in informal contexts. Using this in everyday conversation or casual writing may sound stilted or unnatural. Opt for simpler alternatives like "we'll start" or "we'll begin".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we shall commence" functions as a declarative statement indicating a future action. Grammatically, "shall" is an auxiliary verb used with "we" to express future tense, while "commence" is the main verb meaning 'to begin'. Ludwig AI confirms its proper grammatical structure.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we shall commence" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express the future beginning of an action. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. However, it carries a formal and somewhat old-fashioned tone, making it less common in contemporary English. While appropriate for legal documents or official statements, simpler alternatives like "we will begin" or "we will start" are often preferred in modern writing. Consider the context and audience when deciding whether to use "we shall commence" or a more accessible alternative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we will begin

Replaces the more formal "shall commence" with the simpler and more common "will begin".

we will start

Similar to "we will begin", offering a straightforward alternative to "shall commence".

we are going to start

A less formal alternative using "going to" to express future intention.

we are about to begin

Indicates that the start of an action is imminent.

we intend to begin

Emphasizes the intention to start something.

we plan to start

Similar to "intend to begin", but focuses on the planning aspect.

we are scheduled to begin

Indicates a prearranged or official start time.

we are set to begin

Similar to "scheduled to begin", suggesting readiness.

we are initiating

A more formal alternative to "begin", often used in official contexts.

we are undertaking

Implies a more significant or complex beginning.

FAQs

What does "we shall commence" mean?

The phrase "we shall commence" means "we will begin". It's a formal way to announce the start of something.

When is it appropriate to use "we shall commence"?

Use "we shall commence" in formal contexts, such as legal documents or official announcements. In casual conversation, alternatives like "we will begin" are more appropriate.

Are there alternatives to "we shall commence"?

Yes, you can use phrases like "we will start", "we will begin", or "we are going to begin" depending on the level of formality needed.

Is "we shall commence" outdated?

While grammatically correct, "we shall commence" is less common in contemporary English. Using more modern alternatives can make your writing clearer and more accessible. So instead of using "we shall commence" prefer for example "we will start".