we started off

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we started off" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate the beginning of an action, process, or journey. Example: "In our project, we started off by conducting thorough research to understand the market needs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We started off doing affordable-housing deals.

The New York Times

We started off using Ammonite.

The Guardian

We started off fairly well.

The New York Times - Sports

We started off with a stripy pattern.

Yale University

We started off with 17 people.

The Washington Post

We started off at $135 million.

The New York Times

"We started off and it was hot," she said.

The New York Times - Sports

"We started off a little slow," Stoudemire said.

The New York Times - Sports

"I think we started off pretty well," Lee-Waters said.

The New York Times

"We started off slow," Kim Percy, an employee, said.

The New Yorker

First of all, we started off with what we promised.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we started off" to introduce a sequence of events, providing context for what followed.

Common error

Avoid using "we started off" when you actually mean "we finished off." "Start off" specifically indicates the beginning, not the end. Ensure your phrasing accurately reflects the chronological order of events.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we started off" functions as a verbal phrase, indicating the commencement of an action or state. It is used to introduce the initial phase or beginning of a process, event, or activity. As confirmed by Ludwig, the expression is grammatically correct and widely used in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we started off" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to indicate the beginning of an action or process. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, academic, and business settings. While alternatives like "we began" or "we commenced" offer a more formal tone, "we started off" strikes a balance between clarity and accessibility, making it a versatile choice for effective communication. Remember to avoid confusing it with phrases that indicate completion, ensuring accurate representation of the sequence of events.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we began

A more formal and direct synonym, indicating the commencement of an action or state.

we commenced

A highly formal alternative, suggesting a deliberate and significant start.

we initiated

Implies a more structured or planned beginning, often used in project management.

we kicked off

An informal phrase suggesting an energetic and enthusiastic start.

we launched

Suggests a more public or formal commencement, like a product or campaign.

we got underway

Indicates the start of a journey or process, often used in maritime contexts.

we set about

Suggests a determined and methodical start to a task or project.

we embarked on

Implies a significant and often challenging undertaking or journey.

we pioneered

Indicates starting something new or innovative, being the first to do it.

we originated

Focuses on the point of origin or creation, highlighting the initial source.

FAQs

What's a simple way to define "we started off"?

It means that something has started, focusing on the initial phase or beginning of a journey, process, or activity.

How can I rephrase "we started off" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using alternatives like "we began" or "we commenced", which convey a similar meaning with a higher degree of formality.

Is "we started off" appropriate for academic writing?

While "we started off" is generally acceptable, academic writing often benefits from more precise language. Depending on the context, consider more formal alternatives such as "we initiated" or "we embarked on".

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

"We started" is a more general term indicating the commencement of something. "We started off" typically implies a specific initial action or phase that sets the stage for subsequent events. The "off" adds a nuance of initial direction or momentum.