Thesaurus

start

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

Some common synonyms of start are begin , commence , inaugurate , initiate , and usher in . While all these words mean "to take the first step in a course, process, or operation," start , opposed to stop , applies especially to first actions, steps, or stages. // the work started slowly

Q: How is 'begin' related to other words for 'start'?

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

Q: How does the word 'commence' relate to other synonyms for 'start'?

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

Q: When could 'inaugurate' be used to replace 'start'?

The meanings of inaugurate and start 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: In what contexts can 'initiate' take the place of 'start'?

Although the words initiate and start have much in common, initiate implies taking a first step in a process or series that is to continue. // initiated diplomatic contacts

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

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

verb

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Synonyms & Antonyms of start

(Entry 1 of 2)

1 to move suddenly and sharply (as in surprise)

I started from my chair when I heard the sudden scream

Synonyms for start

Words Related to start

react,
respond

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

started the impressionist movement in art

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construct,
put up

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Antonyms for start

3 to cause to function

trying to start the car on a frigid morning

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Antonyms for start

4 to come into existence

the fight started when one child tripped the other

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5 to extend outward beyond a usual point

frightened horses with starting eyes

Synonyms for start

Words Related to start

dome

blow up,
inflate

mushroom,
snowball

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6 to take the first step in (a process or course of action)

we'll be ready to start the concert in a moment

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Phrases Synonymous with start

Near Antonyms for start

close,
complete

Antonyms for start

start

noun

Synonyms & Antonyms of start (Entry 2 of 2)

the point at which something begins

knew from the start of the game that he would win easily

Synonyms for start

Words Related to start

dawning,
opening

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Antonyms for start

Frequently Asked Questions About start

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

Some common synonyms of start are begin, commence, inaugurate, initiate, and usher in. While all these words mean "to take the first step in a course, process, or operation," start, opposed to stop, applies especially to first actions, steps, or stages.

the work started slowly