Definitions

commence

[kuh-mens] / kəˈmɛns /

VERB

start action

Synonyms

STRONGEST

begin inaugurate initiate launch take up

STRONG

arise open originate

WEAK

come into being come into existence embark on enter upon get cracking get going get one's feet wet get show on road hit the ground running jump into kick off lead off start the ball rolling tear into

Antonyms

STRONGEST

close complete conclude end finish stop

WEAK

cease

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.

Complications commence when a space research vessel smashes into Prodigy Corp.-controlled Bangkok.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 2, 2026

Reports indicate SpaceX is targeting a June listing on the Nasdaq stock exchange under the ticker symbol SPCX, with trading expected to commence shortly thereafter.

From Barron's • May 20, 2026

Both prosecution and defence lawyers told him they are ready for the case to commence.

From BBC • May 19, 2026

Before the uprising can commence, the General has to unify the Polish nobility and peasantry to accumulate the muscle needed to beat back Mother Russia.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 28, 2026

When fighting between Spaniards and Incas finally did commence after Atahuallpa’s execution, the Spanish forces were more formidable.

From "Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies" by Jared M. Diamond

Vocabulary lists containing commence

Bud, Not Buddy

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Essential English Vocabulary, List 1

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List 8

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