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.

In London, the eclipse will begin at 03:33 BST and deepen until maximum eclipse at 05:12 BST, when around 90% of the Moon will be immersed in Earth's umbra, the darkest part of its shadow.

From BBC • Jun. 6, 2026

Let’s begin, however, with the man whom you may be so sick of hearing about at this point … that we’re giving him two entries off the top.

From Slate • Jun. 6, 2026

So whether we’re looking at a Bass-Raman contest or a Bass-Pratt showdown, here are some random musings, and I’ll begin by responding to Bob’s question about whether I have changed my tune.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 6, 2026

It’s why the commissioners reviewed concept plans to begin with.

From Salon • Jun. 6, 2026

“I’m okay, thanks. So, um… I forgot to tell you guys something,” I begin.

From "Split the Sky" by Marie Arnold

begin

Example Sentences

Related Words