verb
Uncommon
commence
kuh-MEHNS
Commence (verb) means to begin or start (formal). Example: “The ceremony will commence at noon sharp.”
verb
1
To begin or start (formal).
"The speeches commenced three days of workshops, seminars, and cultural activities."
— Thom Willenbecher, Women's Caucus Quits Gay Academic Union (1976)
"At dawn we'll commence to drive."
"The ceremony will commence at noon sharp."
"Construction on the new bridge commenced last spring."
"Once everyone is seated, the lesson will commence with a short quiz."
How to use commence
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA more formal way of saying "begin" or "start."
When to use it
Formal — used in official, legal, or ceremonial contexts more than in everyday speech, where "start" or "begin" is more natural.
Common pairings
commence proceedings
commence work
about to commence
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- commences
- Past tense
- commenced
Fill the gap
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The ceremony will _____ at noon sharp.
Etymology
From Old French comencer, ultimately from Latin com- + initiare ("to initiate").
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for commence
See all rhymes for commence →Frequently asked questions
What does “commence” mean?
The word “commence” means to begin or start (formal). In plain terms, a more formal way of saying "begin" or "start.".
How do you pronounce “commence”?
“Commence” is pronounced kuh-MEHNS (/kəˈmɛns/ in IPA).
How do you use “commence” in a sentence?
Here is “commence” used in a sentence: “The ceremony will commence at noon sharp.”
What is another word for “commence”?
Words with a similar meaning to “commence” include begin.
What is the opposite of “commence”?
The opposite of “commence” — its antonyms — are stop, end, cease, finish and conclude.
What part of speech is “commence”?
“Commence” is a verb.
Where does the word “commence” come from?
The word “commence” comes from Latin. From Old French comencer, ultimately from Latin com- + initiare ("to initiate").
Is “commence” a common word?
“Commence” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between commence and begin?
Commence and begin both mean to start something, but commence is a formal word typically used in official, legal, or ceremonial contexts, such as 'the trial will commence Monday.' Begin is the everyday, neutral choice suited to ordinary speech and writing.
When should you use commence instead of begin or start?
Commence fits formal settings such as legal documents, official ceremonies, academic writing, or business announcements, where a more elevated tone is expected. In casual conversation or everyday writing, begin or start reads more naturally and less stiff.
Is commence followed by 'to' or a gerund?
Commence can be followed directly by a noun, as in 'commence the meeting,' or by a gerund, as in 'commence working,' though it is more commonly used with a noun object in formal contexts. Using an infinitive, as in 'commence to work,' sounds notably old-fashioned.
