start

The word “start” means to begin doing something or set something in motion. In plain terms, to begin something, get a machine going, or suddenly flinch in surprise.

“Start” is pronounced staht (/stɑɹt/ in IPA).

Here is “start” used in a sentence: “She started the meeting five minutes late.”

Words with a similar meaning to “start” include begin.

The opposite of “start” — its antonyms — are stop, end, cease, finish and conclude.

Depending on how it is used, “start” can be a verb and a noun.

The word “start” comes from Old English. From Old English styrtan, "to leap up suddenly," which is also behind the related word startle.

“Start” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.

They mean almost the same thing and usually swap freely. 'Start' feels slightly more casual and is used for machines and journeys — you start a car or start off on a trip. 'Begin' sounds a touch more formal. You would not say 'begin the engine,' but 'start' and 'begin' both work for tasks.

Both mean to begin, but they belong to different registers. 'Start' is the everyday word used in ordinary speech. 'Commence' is formal and official, common in ceremonies, legal documents, and announcements — 'the proceedings will commence at noon.' In casual conversation, 'commence' can sound stiff, so 'start' or 'begin' usually fits better.

The opposite of 'start' depends on the sense. If you mean to cease an action, the opposite is 'stop' or 'halt.' If you mean to reach the end of something, it is 'finish' or 'end.' A race starts at one line and finishes at another; an engine you start can later be stopped.