what we started

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "what we started" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a project, initiative, or relationship that was begun by a group or individuals. Example: "Let's not forget what we started together; it has the potential to change everything."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Video Music (2013) Miles Fisher (2009) * "This Must Be the Place (Naive Melody)" (2009) * "New Romance" (2011) * "Don't Let Go" (2011) * "Finish What We Started" (2013) * "Finish What We Started (Andrew Maury Remix)" (feat. Joe Jonas) (2013).

Wikipedia

Finish what we started".

The New York Times

"We're finishing what we started.

The Washington Post

"That's what we started with.

The New York Times

"No deal... we're finishing what we started.

Independent

That's what we started out with.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"We have to finish what we started".

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

"I know these guys are looking forward to finishing what we started".

The New York Times - Sports

That's what we started working on last year.

TechCrunch

I believe that what we started in this campaign will not end here.

The New York Times

It would be great for the colleagues and me to finish what we started," says Clarke.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "what we started" to emphasize the importance of completing something already in progress. It suggests a shared responsibility and investment.

Common error

Avoid using "what we started" when referring to something that has fundamentally changed its purpose or direction. If the current state differs significantly from the initial intention, consider using a more appropriate phrase that reflects the evolution of the project.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what we started" functions as a noun phrase or a clause acting as a noun. It refers to a specific undertaking, project, or action that has been initiated. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and can be used in different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "what we started" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote a project, initiative, or action that has already been initiated. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and broad applicability. It serves to emphasize continuity and commitment, often prompting a call to action to complete unfinished tasks. While versatile, it's best suited for contexts where the original intent remains relevant. Consider using alternatives such as "the project we initiated" or "the work we began" for varied tones. Remember to avoid misinterpreting the scope and ensure the phrase aligns with the current state of the project to maintain clarity and accuracy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the project we initiated

Replaces "what" with a more formal noun, specifying a project.

the work we began

Substitutes "started" with "began", offering a slightly more formal tone.

the endeavor we commenced

Replaces both "what" and "started" with more formal synonyms.

the process we set in motion

Emphasizes the ongoing nature of the process initiated.

the initiative we undertook

Highlights the proactive nature of the starting action.

the task we embarked on

Focuses on the beginning of a specific task.

the journey we set out on

Uses a metaphorical term to describe the starting action.

where we began

Focuses on the location or state where something started.

our starting point

Refers to the initial stage or position.

the origin of our efforts

Highlights the source or beginning of a collective endeavor.

FAQs

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

You can use "what we started" to refer to a project, initiative, or endeavor that a group or individual began. For example, "We need to finish "what we started" last year to achieve our goals".

What is a good alternative to "what we started"?

Alternatives include "the project we initiated", "the work we began", or "the initiative we undertook", depending on the context. These options may provide a more formal or specific tone.

Is it grammatically correct to say "what we started"?

Yes, "what we started" is grammatically correct and commonly used in both spoken and written English. Ludwig AI confirms this usage.

When should I not use "what we started"?

Avoid using "what we started" if the initial goals or purpose of the project have significantly changed. In such cases, a phrase that reflects the new direction would be more appropriate.