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.

Albanese said Wednesday the two countries would begin work on a "comprehensive" new treaty as well as deepen ties in policing.

From Barron's • Jun. 3, 2026

The infrastructure and logistics provider plans to begin meeting select investors in the coming months ahead of the IPO.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 2, 2026

If you never claimed spousal benefits, you’ll have to file an application with the agency to begin receiving that increased benefit.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 2, 2026

The actor’s brother on Sunday asked social media followers for privacy and said the family will continue to “share further information in due course” as they begin funeral arrangements.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 2, 2026

The evacuations begin, starting with women, children, the elderly, and the disabled.

From "At Last She Stood" by Erin Entrada Kelly

begin

Example Sentences

Related Words