A1verb1K

Begin

UK /["/bɪˈɡɪn/","/bɪˈɡɪnz/","/bɪˈɡæn/","/bɪˈɡʌn/","/bɪˈɡɪnɪŋ/"]/US /["/bɪˈɡɪn/","/bɪˈɡɪnz/","/bɪˈɡæn/","/bɪˈɡʌn/","/bɪˈɡɪnɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to start doing something; to do the first part of something

In simple words: To start something.

Examples

  • I will begin my homework after dinner.
  • Let's begin the meeting at 10 AM.
  • He wants to begin learning Spanish this year.
  • When does the show begin?
  • I always begin my day with a cup of coffee.

Usage notes

Use 'begin' in most contexts, both spoken and written. It’s appropriate for formal situations but can also be used informally. Avoid using in very casual contexts where a simpler word like 'start' may be better.

Grammar pattern

begin + object

Memory hint

Think of a 'big in' event where things start.

Collocations

  • again
  • all over again
  • anew
  • be due to
  • be expected to
  • be scheduled to
  • by
  • with
  • begin at the beginning
  • be just beginning
  • be only beginning
  • again
  • all over again
  • anew
  • be due to
  • be expected to
  • be scheduled to
  • by
  • with
  • begin at the beginning
  • be just beginning
  • be only beginning

Synonyms

  • start
  • commence
  • initiate
  • launch
  • originate

Antonyms

  • end
  • finish
  • conclude

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'begin' with 'start' in casual contexts.
  • Incorrectly using it without an object, e.g., 'I will begin.' instead of 'I will begin the project.'
  • Using 'began' instead of 'begin' in present tense situations.