where it all started

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "where it all started" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase can be used to refer to the location or beginning point of something. For example, "We all went back to the old meeting place - that's where it all started."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

That's where it all started".

The New York Times - Arts

"That's really where it all started".

The New York Times

"For me, this is where it all started.

The New York Times - Sports

A group like the Navy Seals — the Congressional Country Club is where it all started".

The New York Times - Sports

I would really love to be able to come back here where it all started".

The New York Times - Sports

So let's take it one step at a time and determine where it all started".

The New Yorker

"I'm delighted as this is where it all started".

BBC

It's kind of where it all started".

Los Angeles Times

As Taylor says, "that's where it all started".

Huffington Post

And over here, where it all started?

Independent

That's where it all started for me.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "where it all started" to create a sense of nostalgia or to emphasize the importance of origins when discussing a person's career, a company's history, or the development of an idea.

Common error

Avoid using "where it all started" when you actually mean the time it started. "Where" refers to a place, not a point in time. If you're referring to a specific date or period, use "when it all started" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "where it all started" functions as a relative clause modifying a noun or pronoun, often providing context or explanation about the origin of something. This is supported by the examples provided by Ludwig, where it is frequently used to specify the location or event marking a beginning.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Sports

15%

Lifestyle

10%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Science

16%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "where it all started" is a common and versatile relative clause used to highlight the significance of the origins of something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across various contexts, especially in news, sports, and lifestyle content. When using this phrase, ensure that you're referring to a physical location or event and not a point in time, and avoid unnecessary additions like 'at'. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for both formal and informal communication, allowing you to effectively emphasize the importance of beginnings in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

where it originated

Similar in meaning but uses a slightly different verb.

the starting point

A more literal and direct way of referring to the beginning.

the source

Emphasizes the origin from which something comes.

the beginning

A simpler, more general term for the start.

the place of origin

More formal and emphasizes the geographical or conceptual origin.

the root of it all

Suggests a deeper, more fundamental origin.

the genesis point

Emphasizes the start or creation of something, often used in a more literary context.

the inception

Highlights the formal beginning or establishment of something.

the initial stage

Focuses on the beginning phase of a process or development.

ground zero

Implies a starting point, often with connotations of a significant event or transformation.

FAQs

How can I use "where it all started" in a sentence?

You can use "where it all started" to refer to the place or situation that marked the beginning of something significant. For example, "This small town is "where it all started" for the tech giant."

What can I say instead of "where it all started"?

You can use alternatives like "the origin", "the source", or "the genesis" depending on the context. Each alternative can change the formality and nuance of your sentence.

Is it correct to say "that's where it all started at"?

No, it's redundant. The "at" is unnecessary. The correct and more concise phrasing is "That's "where it all started"".

What is the difference between "where it all started" and "how it all began"?

"Where it all started" refers to a physical location or a specific place, while "how it all began" refers to the process or circumstances that led to the beginning of something.