starting

The word “starting” means the act or process of beginning something. In plain terms, the act of starting — used mainly in fixed phrases like "starting point" or "starting line.".

“Starting” is pronounced STAH-tihng (/ˈstɑɹtɪŋ/ in IPA).

Here is “starting” used in a sentence: “The starting of the engine took three tries in the cold.”

“Starting” is a noun.

“Starting” is a very common word in modern English.

The two are close synonyms and usually interchangeable. 'Starting' often stresses setting something in motion or getting it going, as with starting a car. 'Beginning' tends to emphasise the first point in time or sequence. You start an engine and begin a story, though either word usually works.

The usual opposites are 'stopping', 'finishing', and 'ending', which describe bringing something to a close rather than setting it in motion. 'Stopping' suggests halting an action, while 'finishing' and 'ending' suggest reaching completion. Each contrasts with the sense of beginning or activating something new.

As an adjective, 'starting' marks the point where something begins, as in a starting point, starting line, or starting salary, the first or initial one. In sport, a starting player is in the line-up from the first whistle rather than on the bench. It consistently points to the beginning of things.