Another Word for Begin: 12 Synonyms with Examples
To begin is to start doing something or to come into being. Alternatives vary in formality and in whether something is set up deliberately.
As a verb: start doing
- start
- commence
- set about
- embark on
- launch into
- take up
As a verb: come into being
- arise
- emerge
- originate
- appear
- develop
- spring up
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How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- start
- Slightly more informal; the most common alternative.
- commence
- Very formal; legal and official contexts.
- set about
- Starts a task with purpose.
- embark on
- Starts something big, new or difficult.
- emerge
- Comes into view or existence gradually.
- originate
- Has its beginning in a particular place or time.
Example sentences
- start: We'll start the meeting when everyone is here.
- commence: The hearing will commence at ten.
- set about: She set about clearing the overgrown garden.
- embark on: He embarked on a career in nursing at forty.
- emerge: A clear pattern emerged from the data.
- originate: The tradition originated in a small fishing village.
Opposite of begin
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “begin”. Check the meaning before you use one.
verb: get
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “begin”?
The most useful alternatives are “start”, “commence”, “set about”, “embark on”, “launch into”. For the main sense (start doing), “start” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “start” and “commence”?
start: Slightly more informal; the most common alternative. commence: Very formal; legal and official contexts.
What is the opposite of “begin”?
Common antonyms are “end”, “finish”, “stop”, “conclude”.