Start vs Begin: What's the Difference?
What's the Difference?
The word "start" is more commonly used in everyday language and for machines or activities, while "begin" can be a slightly more formal expression; in most cases, however, their meanings are the same.
Memory Tip: start = machines and daily, begin = formal events
start has a sharp /t/, begin ends with /n/
start /stɑrt/
nounA start is the beginning of something.
Example:
I start the car in the morning.
Common patterns:
the start of a game
a fresh start
start /stɑrt/
verbTo begin something or to make something happen.
Example:
I start the car in the morning.
Common patterns:
start a game
start a car
begin /bɪˈɡɪn/
verbTo start something.
Example:
The movie begins at 7 o'clock.
Common patterns:
begin a task
begin a story
Common Mistakes
I will start my presentation with a brief overview.
I will begin my presentation with a brief overview.
The word 'begin' is often used in formal contexts, like presentations.
Please begin the engine by turning the key.
Please start the engine by turning the key.
The word 'start' is commonly used for machines or engines.
Quick Practice
0/2 correct1. I ____ the car in the morning.
2. I ____ the car in the morning.
Other Confusing Words
Never confuse start / begin again
Practice confusing word pairs with your daily goal in the Vocab5000 app and learn them for good with a scientifically proven repetition system. Start for free now.
