Began vs. Started

Attribute	Began	Started
Definition	To commence or initiate something	To set something in motion or begin an activity
Synonyms	Commenced, initiated, started, kicked off	Commenced, initiated, began, kicked off
Usage	Formal	Informal
Formality	More formal	Less formal
Implication	Implies a more deliberate or planned action	Implies a more spontaneous or immediate action

When it comes to choosing the right word to convey the start of an action or process, many writers find themselves debating between "began" and "started." While these two words may seem interchangeable at first glance, there are subtle differences in their usage and connotations that can impact the overall tone and clarity of a sentence. In this article, we will explore the attributes of "began" and "started" to help you make an informed decision when selecting the appropriate word for your writing.

Definition and Usage

Both "began" and "started" are past tense forms of the verbs "begin" and "start," respectively. They are often used to indicate the initiation of an action, process, or event. However, "began" is considered to be more formal and literary in style, while "started" is generally more casual and conversational. Writers may choose one over the other based on the tone and context of their writing.

Connotations

One key difference between "began" and "started" lies in their connotations. "Began" is often associated with a sense of formality, seriousness, or significance. It is commonly used in academic, professional, or literary contexts where precision and elegance are valued. On the other hand, "started" is more informal and everyday in its connotations, suggesting a casual or routine beginning of an action or process.

Emphasis and Intensity

Another factor to consider when choosing between "began" and "started" is the level of emphasis or intensity you wish to convey. "Began" tends to emphasize the initiation of an action or process with a sense of deliberation or purpose. It can imply a gradual or thoughtful beginning that may lead to significant consequences. In contrast, "started" is more straightforward and direct in its emphasis, often indicating a simple or immediate beginning without much fanfare.

Context and Register

The choice between "began" and "started" can also be influenced by the context and register of your writing. If you are writing a formal essay, research paper, or professional report, you may opt for "began" to maintain a consistent tone and style. On the other hand, if you are writing informally, such as in a blog post, social media update, or personal email, "started" may be more appropriate to match the casual or conversational register of your writing.

Examples

To illustrate the differences between "began" and "started," let's consider a few examples:

• Formal: The projectbegan with a detailed analysis of the data.
• Informal: The partystarted as soon as the music began playing.
• Formal: The negotiationsbegan in earnest as both parties sought common ground.
• Informal: Istarted my day with a cup of coffee and a quick workout.

As you can see from these examples, the choice between "began" and "started" can have a significant impact on the tone, style, and register of your writing. By considering the definitions, connotations, emphasis, and context of each word, you can make a more informed decision when selecting the appropriate word to convey the beginning of an action or process in your writing.