Thesaurus

initiate

Q: How is the word 'initiate' different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of initiate are begin , commence , inaugurate , start , and usher in . While all these words mean "to take the first step in a course, process, or operation," initiate implies taking a first step in a process or series that is to continue. // initiated diplomatic contacts

Q: How does the word 'begin' relate to other synonyms for 'initiate'?

Begin , start , and commence are often interchangeable, with begin , opposed to end , being the most general. // begin a trip // began dancing

Q: How is 'commence' related to other words for 'initiate'?

Commence can be more formal or bookish than begin or start . // commence firing // commenced a conversation

Q: When would 'inaugurate' be a good substitute for 'initiate'?

The meanings of inaugurate and initiate largely overlap; however, inaugurate suggests a beginning of some formality or notion of significance. // the discovery of penicillin inaugurated a new era in medicine

Q: Where would 'start' be a reasonable alternative to 'initiate'?

While the synonyms start and initiate are close in meaning, start , opposed to stop , applies especially to first actions, steps, or stages. // the work started slowly

Q: How are the words 'usher in' and 'inaugurate' related as synonyms of 'initiate'?

Usher in is somewhat less weighty than inaugurate . // ushered in a period of economic decline

verb

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Synonyms & Antonyms of initiate

1 to be responsible for the creation and early operation or use of

no one knows who initiated written language

Synonyms for initiate

Words Related to initiate

Near Antonyms for initiate

Antonyms for initiate

2 to impart knowledge of a new thing or situation to

initiated the new recruits in the unspoken laws of military conduct

Synonyms for initiate

Words Related to initiate

reacquaint

3 to put into an office or welcome into an organization with special ceremonies

initiated her as Surgeon General before an army of reporters and photographers

Synonyms for initiate

Words Related to initiate

swear in

Near Antonyms for initiate

muster out

Frequently Asked Questions About initiate

How is the word initiate different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of initiate are begin, commence, inaugurate, start, and usher in. While all these words mean "to take the first step in a course, process, or operation," initiate implies taking a first step in a process or series that is to continue.

initiated diplomatic contacts