we started to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we started to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate the beginning of an action or process that involves a subsequent verb. Example: "After much discussion, we started to implement the new policy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We started to sway.

The New York Times

"We started to struggle".

The New York Times

So we started to explore".

The New York Times - Arts

We started to be together".

The New York Times - Arts

And we started to sing.

The Guardian

We started to fight.

The New York Times

We started to barter.

The Guardian

We started to hope.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

We started to cry.

The Guardian

"We started to burst at the seams".

The New York Times - Arts

"We started to wonder," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we started to" when you want to clearly indicate the beginning of an action or process. It's versatile and suitable for a wide range of contexts.

Common error

In formal contexts, avoid overusing "we started to". Consider more precise alternatives like "we initiated", "we commenced", or "we undertook" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we started to" functions primarily as a verb phrase indicating the initiation of an action. Ludwig AI confirms this by presenting numerous examples where this phrase introduces a subsequent verb, marking the beginning of a process or activity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

34%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we started to" is a common and grammatically correct way to indicate the beginning of an action or process. Ludwig AI analysis shows its frequent use across diverse sources, particularly in news and media. While versatile, it's essential to consider the context and choose more formal alternatives when appropriate. To avoid overuse, writers should explore synonyms like "we began to" or "we commenced to". Overall, "we started to" is a reliable and widely understood phrase for expressing the initiation of an activity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we began to

This alternative is a direct synonym, simply replacing "started" with "began".

we commenced to

Replaces "started" with "commenced", offering a slightly more formal tone.

we initiated

This omits the "to", implying a direct initiation of an action.

we undertook to

This suggests a more deliberate and planned beginning.

we set about to

Implies starting a task or activity with a specific purpose.

we proceeded to

Replaces "started" with "proceeded", indicating a step-by-step approach.

we got down to

Implies starting something, often a task, in a practical or efficient manner.

we launched into

Suggests a sudden and energetic start.

we embarked on

This is a more formal alternative, suggesting the beginning of a journey or endeavor.

we turned to

Indicates a shift in focus or action, initiating something new.

FAQs

What does "we started to" mean?

The phrase "we started to" indicates the beginning of an action, process, or state. It shows that a group of people (represented by "we") commenced doing something.

What can I say instead of "we started to"?

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

Is "we started to" formal or informal?

The phrase "we started to" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in very formal writing, consider alternatives like "we commenced to" or "we undertook to".

How can I improve my writing using "we started to"?

To use "we started to" effectively, ensure that the verb following "to" accurately reflects the action or process that began. Avoid overuse by considering alternatives and varying your sentence structure.