we started out

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we started out" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate the beginning of a process, journey, or experience. Example: "When we started out on this project, we had no idea how much work it would entail."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That's obviously a big change from when we started out".

Independent

We started out here.

Yale University

We started out simply.

The Washington Post

We started out with Raoult.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

We started out in the right direction.

The Economist

But we started out well enough.

The New York Times - Travel

"We started out being nice," Carl said.

The New Yorker

That's what we started out with.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

We started out at a brisk pace.

The New Yorker

But we started out trying to do it.

Cornell University

When we started out, we had two quite simple goals.

Princeton University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we started out" to describe the initial phase of a project, relationship, or endeavor to clearly communicate the starting point.

Common error

Avoid using "we started out" when simply stating a beginning point without the implication of subsequent progress or change. Use "we began" if the directional aspect isn't relevant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we started out" primarily functions as a verb phrase indicating the commencement of an activity, process, or state. Ludwig examples show its use in various narrative contexts, highlighting beginnings and subsequent developments. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Academia

22%

Science

6%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we started out" is a versatile verb phrase used to denote the commencement of an action, project, or relationship. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used. It commonly appears in news articles and academic texts, but also finds use in casual conversations. It is important to note that the inclusion of 'out' implies a movement or change from the initial state. Related alternatives include "we began" or "we initiated", but they lack the implication of direction. The most common error is to use "we started out" when referring to a single starting point, without any implication of subsequent progress or change.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we began

Focuses on the action of beginning, omitting the 'out' which implies direction or journey.

we commenced

A more formal way of saying 'we began'.

we initiated

Highlights the act of taking the first step or setting something in motion.

we launched

Suggests a more deliberate and organized beginning, often used for projects or ventures.

we kicked off

An informal way of saying 'we started', often used in project management.

we got underway

Implies the start of a journey or process.

we set about

Focuses on the action of beginning a task or undertaking.

we embarked on

Indicates a significant or adventurous beginning.

at the outset

Highlights the very beginning of something, often used in formal contexts.

in the beginning

A more general way to refer to the start of something.

FAQs

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

"We started out" is used to describe the initial phase of an activity or project, implying a subsequent journey or evolution. For example: "We started out as a small team with a big idea." or "We started out with basic equipment but gradually improved our setup."

What phrases are similar to "we started out"?

Alternatives include "we began", "we commenced", or "we initiated", depending on the context and desired level of formality. The phrase implies that the situation has evolved since the beginning.

What's the difference between "we started out" and "we began"?

"We started out" often implies a journey or evolution from the initial state, while "we began" simply indicates the commencement of an action or state. "We started out" is more descriptive of a transformative process.

Is "we started out" formal or informal?

"We started out" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in very formal writing, you might consider using "we commenced" or "we initiated" for a more professional tone.