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Definitions

begin

[bih-gin] / bɪˈgɪn /
VERB
start
Synonyms
STRONGEST
commence create do establish found go ahead go into inaugurate initiate introduce launch lead make open prepare produce set up start undertake
STRONG
activate actualize cause drive effect eventuate generate impel induce instigate institute motivate mount occasion originate trigger
WEAK
break ground break the ice bring about bring to pass embark on enter on enter upon get going give birth to give impulse lay foundation for make active plunge into set about set in motion
Antonyms
STRONGEST
cease close conclude destroy end fail finish halt ignore lose neglect ruin stop
STRONG
check discourage dissuade prevent repress
WEAK
complete consummate die
VERB
come into being; become functional
Synonyms
STRONGEST
appear come out commence emerge enter happen occur rise set take off
STRONG
arise bud dawn emanate germinate originate sail spring sprout
WEAK
be born come forth come into existence crop up derive from get going get show on road get under way grow out of issue forth kick off make tick proceed from result from send off stem from
Antonyms
STRONGEST
complete disappear end finish hide leave stop
STRONG
die shrink
WEAK
conclude consummate

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He said: "Ours is very much more looking at sewerage indicators and, where we find those, we can then begin to work to understand where they've come from."

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

That advance also was slightly weaker than the advance forecast for a 2.3% increase and came after sales dropped 1.1% to begin 2026.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 15, 2026

This delayed reaction means that even if oil prices begin to fall in the coming weeks, the momentum of that initial increase will remain embedded in the economy.

From Barron's • Apr. 15, 2026

Ticket sales for A Hogwarts Express Adventure will begin April 28, with prices starting at $77 for adults and $67 for children ages 2 to 11, depending on departure time.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 15, 2026

"Skinny rabbit," he whispered, and, well satisfied, saw Rowan begin to laugh.

From "Rowan of Rin" by Emily Rodda