C1verb2K

UK/["/ɪˈnɪʃieɪt/","/ɪˈnɪʃieɪts/","/ɪˈnɪʃieɪtɪd/","/ɪˈnɪʃieɪtɪŋ/"]/US/["/ɪˈnɪʃieɪt/","/ɪˈnɪʃieɪts/","/ɪˈnɪʃieɪtɪd/","/ɪˈnɪʃieɪtɪŋ/"]/

Meaning of Initiate

to make something begin

In simple words: To start something.

Initiate in a sentence

  • to initiate legal proceedings against somebody
  • The government has initiated a programme of economic reform.
  • Anyone has the right to initiate legislation in Parliament by means of a private bill.
  • Bacteria then enter the wound and initiate infection.
  • He initiated a national debate on reform.
  • The organization may initiate legal action against you.
  • She was initiated into classical music by her mother.
  • His uncle initiated him into the pleasures of sailing.
  • Hundreds are initiated into the sect each year.

How to use Initiate

Use 'initiate' in contexts where a formal or official start is needed, like in business or academic settings. It may feel too formal in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

initiate + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'in-it-iate' — think of being in a meeting where you begin a new project.

Related words

Collocations with Initiate

Synonyms for Initiate

  • set/put in motion

Opposites of Initiate

Common mistakes with Initiate

  • Confused with 'initiation' which is the process of starting something.
  • Using it in informal settings where simpler words like 'start' are preferred.
  • Forgetting to use an object after 'initiate', such as 'initiate a project.'

Initiate appears in

Initiate in other languages

More words like Initiate

People also search for

  • Initiate meaning
  • meaning of Initiate
  • Initiate definition
  • define Initiate
  • what does Initiate mean
  • Initiate means
  • how to use Initiate

Frequently asked questions about Initiate

What does Initiate mean?

To start something.

What is the definition of Initiate?

to make something begin

How do you use Initiate in a sentence?

to initiate legal proceedings against somebody

Can you give another example of Initiate?

The government has initiated a programme of economic reform.

What are synonyms for Initiate?

Common alternatives include set/put in motion.

What is the opposite of Initiate?

Opposite meanings include terminate, end, cease.

What words go with Initiate?

It commonly pairs with formally, immediately, recently.

What are common mistakes when using Initiate?

Confused with 'initiation' which is the process of starting something. Using it in informal settings where simpler words like 'start' are preferred. Forgetting to use an object after 'initiate', such as 'initiate a project.'

How do you pronounce Initiate?

US: /["/ɪˈnɪʃieɪt/","/ɪˈnɪʃieɪts/","/ɪˈnɪʃieɪtɪd/","/ɪˈnɪʃieɪtɪŋ/"]/, UK: /["/ɪˈnɪʃieɪt/","/ɪˈnɪʃieɪts/","/ɪˈnɪʃieɪtɪd/","/ɪˈnɪʃieɪtɪŋ/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Initiate?

Use 'initiate' in contexts where a formal or official start is needed, like in business or academic settings. It may feel too formal in casual conversations.

What CEFR level is Initiate?

"Initiate" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.