What is the Difference Between Begin and Start?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The main difference between "begin" and "start" is their level of formality. Both words can be used synonymously to refer to the initiation or commencement of an action or process, but "begin" is considered more formal and literary, while "start" is more informal and action-oriented.
Examples of "begin" include:
- The lecture will begin promptly at 9 am.
- She began her journey toward self-discovery last year.
- Let's begin the negotiation with an opening offer.
- The movie begins with a dramatic scene setting the story's tone.
Examples of "start" include:
- You should start reading the novel I gave you.
- The sailor started his voyage for the unknown land.
In summary:
- "Begin" is more formal and literary, often used in written or spoken language.
- "Start" is more informal and action-oriented, frequently used in daily English.
- Both words can be used interchangeably, but the choice between them depends on the context and the desired tone.
Comparative Table: Begin vs Start
The difference between "begin" and "start" mainly lies in their usage and formality. Here is a summary of their differences:
| Begin | Start |
|---|---|
| More formal and is attached to more abstract things | More informal and is more likely about concrete processes |
| Used in contexts involving artistic performances, periods of time, or academic lessons | Used in contexts involving mechanical functions, such as starting machines or engines, or creating organizations like businesses |
| Past tense: began, past participle: begun | Past tense: started, past participle: started |
Both verbs can be used to describe the act of beginning or starting something, but "begin" is more suitable for abstract or formal contexts, while "start" is more commonly used for concrete or informal situations.
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