we started

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we started" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It can be used in various contexts, but it is often used to describe the beginning of an action or event. Example: "We started our journey early in the morning, eager to reach our destination before sunset."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We started.

The Washington Post

We started to sway.

The New York Times

We started up.

The New York Times - Travel

Later, we started drinking.

The New Yorker

We started walking.

The New Yorker

We started a dialogue.

The New York Times

Finish what we started".

The New York Times

"We started screaming 'Jesus!

The New York Times

We started our presentation.

The Economist

Then we started looking.

The New York Times

We started dreaming backwards.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we started" to clearly indicate the beginning of an action, process, or project. Ensure the context provides clarity on what was initiated.

Common error

Avoid using "we started" without specifying what was started. Always provide context to ensure clarity for the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we started" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the commencement of an action or process. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples where it's used to describe the beginning of activities, projects, or states of being. It's a straightforward way to express initiation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

25%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we started" is a very common and grammatically correct phrase used to indicate the beginning of an action or process. Ludwig AI analysis shows that it appears frequently in News & Media and Academic contexts, with neutral register suitable for a wide range of communication. When using this phrase, ensure you provide clear context about what was initiated. Consider using alternatives like "we began" or "we commenced" for varied emphasis. Ludwig's examples showcase its versatility in different situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we began

Uses a different verb to convey a similar meaning of initiating something.

we commenced

Offers a more formal synonym for 'started', implying a structured beginning.

we initiated

Suggests a more deliberate and planned start to an activity.

we took the first step

Emphasizes the initial action in a process or journey.

we set about

Highlights the approach and method of beginning something.

we got underway

Implies that a process or project has been launched.

we embarked on

Suggests the beginning of a significant or adventurous undertaking.

we kicked off

Provides an informal way to express the start of a project or activity.

we launched

Indicates the official or public beginning of something.

we got the ball rolling

Focuses on starting an action that leads to further progress.

FAQs

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

"We started" is used to indicate the beginning of an action or process. For example, "We started the project last week" or "We started to understand the problem better after the meeting".

What are some alternatives to "we started"?

Some alternatives include "we began", "we commenced", or "we initiated". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is it correct to say "we had started" instead of "we started"?

Both "we started" and "we had started" can be correct, but they convey different meanings. "We started" indicates a simple past action, while "we had started" indicates an action that was completed before another point in the past.

What's the difference between "we started" and "we begin"?

"We started" refers to an action that began in the past, while "we begin" refers to an action that is starting in the present or future. For example, "We started yesterday" versus "we begin now".