begin

/bɪˈɡɪn/
verb★Beginner
formalinformal

To start doing something; to commence an action or process.

The meeting will begin at 9 AM sharp.

The ceremony began with a traditional song.

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Can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

formal

To have a starting point or origin.

The problem began with a simple misunderstanding.

The story begins in a small village.

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Often used in narratives or explanations.

Collocations

begin withTo start with a particular action or event.begin toTo start doing something gradually.begin againTo restart something after a pause.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

begin withphrase
To start with a particular action or event.
begin tophrase
To start doing something gradually.

💡Pro Tip

Common Mistakes

Avoid using 'begin' in contexts where 'start' is more natural, such as 'start a conversation' rather than 'begin a conversation.'

⚡Gold Rule

Tense Usage

Remember that the past tense of 'begin' is 'began,' and the past participle is 'begun.' For example, 'She has begun her journey.'

📖Word Origin

From Middle English 'biginnen,' from Old English 'beginnan,' meaning 'to begin, commence.' Related to Old High German 'biginnan' and Old Norse 'byrja.'

📝Usage Notes

The past tense is 'began,' and the past participle is 'begun.'

Word Breakdown

be-
Intensive prefix, often indicating completeness or thoroughness.
prefix
+
-gin
Related to the Old English 'ginnan,' meaning 'to begin.'
root
English Dictionary