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Start
/ʃtaʁt/
start
Der Start des Projekts ist für nächste Woche geplant.
The start of the project is planned for next week.
neutral
the beginning of an action, process, or event
Der Start der Rakete war erfolgreich.
The rocket's launch was successful.
Zum Start des Films gab es viele Zuschauer.
There were many viewers at the start of the movie.
Used in contexts like launches, projects, events, or timelines. Often interchangeable with 'Beginn' but 'Start' is more dynamic, implying movement or initiation.
Collocations
Startschussstarting signalStartkapitalseed capitalStartseitehomepage (website)Startbahnrunway (airport)
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
When to use 'Start' vs. 'Beginn'
'Start' is preferred for dynamic, active beginnings (e.g., 'Der Start der Rakete' = the rocket's launch). 'Beginn' is more neutral and works for abstract or gradual starts (e.g., 'Der Beginn des Jahres' = the beginning of the year). 'Anfang' is interchangeable but often implies a softer, less abrupt start.
Gold Rule
Capitalization in German
Nouns in German are always capitalized, including 'Start'. This rule applies to all compound nouns like 'Startschuss' or 'Startkapital'.
Word Origin
From Middle High German 'start', originally meaning 'a leap or bound' (related to English 'start' in the sense of sudden movement). Borrowed from Old English 'steort' (tail, rear), but the modern sense evolved in German via the idea of 'taking off' or 'leaping into action'.
Usage Notes
In German, 'Start' is commonly used in technical, sports, and business contexts. It is slightly more dynamic than 'Beginn' or 'Anfang', which can sound more neutral or formal. 'Start' often implies an active, intentional beginning (e.g., 'Start des Motors' = engine start). In compound words, 'Start-' is a productive prefix (e.g., 'Startknopf' = start button).
Word Breakdown
Start
start/beginning
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