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make a start

VERB
break the ice
Synonyms
WEAK
be friendly and talkative break ground cut the first turf get one's feet wet lay the first stone lead off lead the way oil the works open the way pave the way set at ease smooth the path socialize start start the ball rolling take the plunge
VERB
proceed
Synonyms
STRONGEST
advance continue get go ahead go on pass press on progress travel
STRONG
fare hie journey march repair wend
WEAK
get going get on with get under way move on move out push on set in motion
Antonyms
STRONGEST
cease decrease discontinue fail finish halt lose retreat retrogress stop yield
STRONG
stay
WEAK
return wait

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.

It still suggests sales picked up and hints at a solid start to a key period for retailers, covering Black Friday sales as consumers make a start on holiday shopping.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 19, 2025

Yamamoto has yet to make a start on less than five-days’ rest.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 3, 2024

"But yesterday I did make a start in bringing down the tax burden," Mr Hunt said.

From BBC • Nov. 23, 2023

“We’re on track for him to make a start Thursday.”

From Washington Times • Jul. 18, 2023

One Saturday afternoon when Timmy was in bed with 'flu, I decided to make a start on the roof all by myself.

From "The Witches" by Roald Dahl