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Definitions

start off

VERB
inspire
Synonyms
STRONGEST
affect animate arouse cause embolden excite galvanize get hearten impress influence instill motivate produce provoke spark spur stir sway touch trigger
STRONG
carry commove elate endue enkindle enliven exalt exhilarate imbue infect inflame inform infuse inspirit invigorate occasion quicken reassure strike urge
WEAK
be responsible for fire up give impetus give one an idea give rise to set up work up
Antonyms
STRONGEST
bore calm deaden depress discourage dissuade halt leave alone lull please quiet stop
STRONG
dishearten dull enervate lose
NOUN
start
Synonyms
STRONGEST
beginning dawn kickoff opening outset
STRONG
birth commencement countdown dawning derivation embarkation foundation inauguration inception initiation introduction leaving onset origin source spring takeoff
WEAK
alpha arrival coming day one first step flying start jump-off running start setting-out square one start-off
Antonyms
STRONGEST
conclusion end ending finish
STRONG
close completion consequence death effect exit outgrowth result termination
WEAK
stop

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.

"You're just sort of thrown into the deep end or you start off small and then it gets sort of more and more demanding."

From BBC • Mar. 31, 2026

“We start off with with a number that we feel really good about and then re-evaluate it when we get closer to the quarter, and that’s been our track record,” Linford said.

From Barron's • Feb. 6, 2026

This year’s event will start off with a screening and conversation with the stars of Apple TV’s postapocalyptic sci-fi series “Pluribus.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 26, 2026

Inflation could get even worse to start off 2026, since January is when companies adjust pricing for the year.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 23, 2026

“There’s nothing to do but to wait here. If, however, he doesn’t turn up by five o’clock, we must start off; for it won’t do to leave Mrs. Harker alone after sunset.”

From "Dracula" by Bram Stoker