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B1 verb #32 le plus courant 16 min de lecture

began

Top 32

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces began en 30 secondes

Explication began in your Level:

At the A1 level, the word 'began' is introduced as the past tense of 'begin'. Students learn that 'began' is used to talk about things that started in the past. It is often taught alongside simple time markers like 'yesterday', 'last week', or 'at 5 o'clock'. At this stage, the focus is on simple, concrete actions. For example, 'The school began at 8 AM' or 'The rain began yesterday.' Teachers emphasize that 'began' is an irregular verb, meaning it doesn't end in '-ed' like 'played' or 'walked'. Students are encouraged to memorize the pattern: begin (present) -> began (past). The goal is for learners to be able to describe the start of their daily routines or simple events in the past. They might use it in short sentences to tell a basic story about their day. At A1, the distinction between 'began' and 'started' is not usually a priority, as both are acceptable. The main challenge for A1 learners is remembering the irregular spelling and ensuring they don't say 'beginned'. Through repetition and simple examples, students become comfortable using 'began' to anchor their past tense sentences. They also learn that 'began' can be followed by an action, like 'He began to eat.' This helps them build slightly more complex sentences. Overall, 'began' is a foundational word that allows A1 learners to start expressing chronological sequences in English, which is a key step in moving beyond the present tense.

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At the A2 level, learners expand their use of 'began' to describe a wider range of activities and experiences. They start to use it not just for simple daily routines, but also for hobbies, short trips, and personal milestones. For instance, 'I began to learn English two years ago' or 'We began our vacation in Paris.' At this stage, students are more aware of the different structures that can follow 'began', such as the infinitive ('began to work') and the gerund ('began working'). They begin to understand that 'began' can be used to show the start of a longer process. A2 learners also start to encounter 'began' in simple reading texts and stories, where it is used to move the plot forward. They might see sentences like 'The dragon began to breathe fire' or 'The hero began his journey.' This helps them see the word's role in narrative structure. Teachers at this level might introduce the idea that 'began' is slightly more formal than 'started', but the focus remains on accurate usage in various contexts. Students also learn to use 'began' with a variety of subjects, including people, animals, and inanimate objects like 'the movie' or 'the weather'. The challenge at A2 is to use 'began' consistently and correctly in longer stretches of speech or writing. By the end of this level, students should feel confident using 'began' to describe the initiation of most common past events and should be able to distinguish it from the present tense 'begin' and the future 'will begin'.

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At the B1 level, 'began' becomes a more nuanced tool for communication. Learners are expected to use it accurately in both spoken and written English to describe professional experiences, social trends, and more complex personal narratives. They might say, 'The company began a new project last month' or 'People began to use social media more frequently during that period.' At this stage, students are introduced to the common confusion between 'began' and 'begun'. They learn that 'began' is the simple past and 'begun' is the past participle used with 'have/has/had'. This is a crucial grammatical milestone. B1 learners also start to use 'began' with abstract nouns and more sophisticated verbs. For example, 'He began to realize the importance of his family' or 'The conflict began over a misunderstanding.' They are also encouraged to use adverbs with 'began' to add detail, such as 'The rain began suddenly' or 'The meeting began late.' In writing, B1 students use 'began' to structure their essays and reports, often using it to introduce the first point in a historical or logical sequence. They also begin to recognize 'began' in more varied media, such as news reports and podcasts. The goal at B1 is for the learner to use 'began' not just correctly, but also naturally, choosing it over 'started' when a slightly more formal or narrative tone is appropriate. They should also be able to handle the word in questions and negative sentences, such as 'When did the show began?' (correcting to 'When did the show begin?') and 'It didn't begin on time.'

At the B2 level, students use 'began' with a high degree of fluency and precision. They are comfortable using it in a variety of formal and informal contexts, from academic essays to casual conversations. At this stage, the focus shifts to the subtle differences between 'began' and its synonyms like 'commenced', 'initiated', or 'launched'. B2 learners understand that 'began' is often the best choice for a general narrative, while 'commenced' is for formal ceremonies and 'launched' is for products or projects. They also use 'began' to describe more complex psychological or social shifts. For example, 'The public began to question the government's motives' or 'A new era of technological innovation began in the late 20th century.' B2 students are also adept at using 'began' in complex sentence structures, such as 'No sooner had the music began than the crowd started to dance' (correcting to 'begun' in this specific past perfect structure). They understand the word's role in setting the scene and creating atmosphere in their writing. In discussions, they use 'began' to provide historical context or to explain the origins of their ideas. They are also aware of idiomatic expressions and phrasal verbs related to starting, and they can choose 'began' when it is the most effective word for the situation. The challenge at B2 is to avoid overusing 'began' and to vary their vocabulary to keep their language engaging. By this level, the grammatical rules for 'began' are second nature, and the focus is on stylistic choice and sophisticated expression.

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At the C1 level, 'began' is used with the sophistication of a near-native speaker. Learners use it to convey subtle shades of meaning and to control the tone and pace of their communication. They are aware of the historical and literary connotations of the word and can use it to create specific effects in their writing. For example, they might use 'began' to initiate a long, descriptive passage or to mark a significant turning point in a complex argument. C1 learners also use 'began' in highly formal academic and professional contexts, where they might pair it with complex abstract subjects: 'The erosion of traditional values began with the rise of industrialization.' They are also skilled at using 'began' in passive constructions and other advanced grammatical forms, although they know that the active voice is often more powerful. At this level, students can analyze the use of 'began' in literature and high-level journalism, noting how it contributes to the overall narrative flow. They are also able to use 'began' in a wide range of idiomatic and metaphorical ways. The focus at C1 is on total mastery of the word's usage, including its collocation with various adverbs and its role in different registers. They can seamlessly switch between 'began', 'started', 'commenced', and other alternatives depending on the audience and purpose of their communication. Their use of 'began' is not just accurate but also elegant, contributing to a high level of overall communicative competence.

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At the C2 level, the word 'began' is a tool for masterful expression. Learners at this level use it with complete ease and can exploit its full range of meanings and connotations. They can use 'began' to create poetic or dramatic effects, or to provide precise, objective descriptions in technical or legal writing. For a C2 learner, 'began' is part of a vast and nuanced vocabulary that they can draw upon to express even the most complex ideas. They might use it in philosophical discussions to describe the origins of concepts or in historical analysis to pinpoint the start of subtle cultural shifts. For example, 'The subtle shift in the zeitgeist began long before it was reflected in the popular media.' C2 learners are also aware of the etymology of 'began' and how its usage has evolved over time. They can appreciate its use in classic literature and can emulate those styles in their own writing if they choose. At this level, the distinction between 'began' and its synonyms is used with deliberate intent to achieve a specific rhetorical effect. They are also experts at identifying and correcting even the most subtle misuses of 'began' in others' speech or writing. For a C2 learner, 'began' is not just a word they know; it is a word they can play with, using it to add rhythm, clarity, and depth to their communication. Their mastery of 'began' is a testament to their deep understanding of the English language and its many layers of meaning.

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

began en 30 secondes

Began is the simple past tense of the irregular verb 'begin', used to show when an action started.
It is essential for storytelling and describing historical events or past personal experiences clearly.
Unlike regular verbs, it does not end in '-ed'; its present form is 'begin' and participle is 'begun'.
It can be followed by a noun, a 'to-infinitive', or a gerund to describe what was initiated.

The word began is the simple past tense form of the verb 'begin'. It serves as a fundamental building block in the English language, specifically used to denote the exact point in time when an action, process, or state of being transitioned from non-existence into reality within the past. When we use 'began', we are looking back at a specific moment on the timeline where something was initiated. It is a word of movement and initiation, often carrying a sense of momentum or the start of a narrative arc. In everyday conversation, 'began' is used to describe everything from the weather changing to the start of a professional career. It is slightly more formal than 'started' in certain literary contexts, but it remains a staple of both casual and academic English. Understanding 'began' requires recognizing that it is an irregular verb; unlike regular verbs that add '-ed' (like 'started'), 'begin' changes its internal vowel to become 'began'. This word is essential for storytelling, reporting historical events, and explaining the sequence of personal experiences. Whether you are describing how a fire began in a forest or how a friendship began in a classroom, the word anchors the listener to the origin point of the story.

Temporal Anchor: The word 'began' acts as a marker for the inception of an event, providing a clear starting point in a past narrative.

The heavy rain began just as we reached the shelter of the old oak tree.

In professional settings, 'began' is frequently employed to describe the launch of projects, the commencement of meetings, or the historical origins of a company. It carries a weight of factuality. For instance, 'The construction began in 1994' sounds definitive and objective. In contrast, in emotional or psychological contexts, 'began' can describe the onset of feelings or realizations. 'She began to understand the complexity of the situation' suggests a gradual dawning of awareness that started in the past. The versatility of 'began' lies in its ability to take both a direct object (like 'he began the work') and an infinitive (like 'he began to work'). This flexibility allows speakers to emphasize either the action itself or the process of starting. Furthermore, 'began' is often paired with temporal markers such as 'at', 'in', or 'when' to provide precise context. It is the bridge between the void of inaction and the activity of the past.

Narrative Function: In literature, 'began' is often used to signal a shift in the plot or the introduction of a new character's influence.

The era of peace began with the signing of the historic treaty.

When discussing scientific or natural phenomena, 'began' is the standard choice for describing the start of cycles or reactions. 'The experiment began with the introduction of a catalyst' or 'The cooling process began immediately after the heat source was removed.' These usages highlight the word's role in documenting cause and effect. In the realm of personal growth, 'began' is used to mark milestones. 'I began my journey as a musician when I was five years old.' Here, 'began' doesn't just mean 'started'; it implies the initiation of a long-term commitment or identity. It is also common in news reporting to provide a timeline of events: 'The protest began peacefully at noon but escalated later in the afternoon.' This usage helps establish a baseline for subsequent developments. By mastering 'began', a learner gains the ability to structure past events logically and clearly, ensuring that the listener understands exactly where the story takes its first breath.

He began to realize that his initial assumptions were entirely incorrect.

Causality: Using 'began' often implies a trigger or a reason that set the subsequent events in motion.

The concert began with a stunning solo performance on the cello.

The sun began to set, casting long shadows across the valley floor.

Using began correctly involves understanding its grammatical patterns and its relationship with other words in a sentence. The most common pattern is 'Subject + began + [Noun/Gerund/Infinitive]'. For example, in 'The class began at eight,' the verb is intransitive, meaning it doesn't need an object to complete its meaning. However, in 'She began her speech,' 'her speech' is the direct object. One of the most frequent uses of 'began' is followed by a 'to-infinitive' or a 'gerund' (-ing form). 'He began to run' and 'He began running' are both grammatically correct and carry almost identical meanings, though 'began to run' often suggests a more sudden or specific initiation, while 'began running' might emphasize the ongoing nature of the action that followed. It is important to note that 'began' is strictly for the past. If you are talking about the present, you use 'begin' or 'begins', and for the future, 'will begin'.

Intransitive Use: The verb stands alone to show that an event started without focusing on what was started.

The performance began promptly at the scheduled time.

Another nuance of 'began' is its use in 'it' constructions, such as 'It began to snow.' This is a standard way to describe weather changes. When 'began' is used with abstract nouns, it often describes the start of a period or a state. 'The war began in 1939' or 'Their friendship began in college.' In these cases, 'began' provides a historical or chronological marker. You can also use 'began' to describe the first step in a sequence of actions: 'First, she began by cleaning the kitchen, then she moved to the living room.' This 'began by [verb-ing]' pattern is very useful for explaining processes or instructions. Furthermore, 'began' is often modified by adverbs to provide more detail about how the action started. 'It began slowly,' 'It began suddenly,' or 'It began unexpectedly.' These adverbs help the reader or listener visualize the transition from stillness to activity.

Transitive Use: The verb is followed by a direct object that receives the action of starting.

The chef began the preparation of the main course hours in advance.

In complex sentences, 'began' can be part of a subordinate clause to set the scene. 'When the music began, everyone stood up.' This structure is excellent for showing cause and effect or simultaneous actions. It is also worth noting that 'began' is often used in the passive voice, though less commonly than 'started'. 'The project was begun by the previous administration' (though 'was started' is more frequent in modern English). However, 'began' is most powerful in the active voice, where it clearly identifies the initiator of the action. Whether the subject is a person, an object, or an abstract concept, 'began' provides the necessary momentum to propel the sentence forward. By varying the words that follow 'began', you can convey a wide range of meanings, from the literal start of a physical movement to the metaphorical start of a new life chapter.

They began their journey with nothing but a map and a sense of adventure.

Sequence Marker: Use 'began' to indicate the first step in a series of historical or personal events.

The conversation began with a simple question about the weather.

As the lights dimmed, the audience began to cheer with excitement.

The word began is ubiquitous in English, appearing in various registers and contexts. In literature and storytelling, it is a primary tool for narrative progression. Authors use it to initiate scenes, introduce changes in character behavior, or describe the onset of natural events. For example, 'The storm began with a low rumble of thunder' is a classic opening line that sets a mood. In historical writing, 'began' is indispensable for establishing timelines. You will find it in textbooks, documentaries, and museum plaques: 'The Industrial Revolution began in Great Britain in the 18th century.' This usage emphasizes the word's role in documenting the origins of significant human developments. In news media, 'began' is used to report the start of events, trials, or diplomatic negotiations. A news anchor might say, 'The trial began today with opening statements from the prosecution,' providing a clear chronological anchor for the day's events.

News Reporting: Used to provide a factual timeline for current events and legal proceedings.

The investigation began shortly after the evidence was discovered.

In everyday conversation, 'began' is used to recount personal experiences. People use it to tell stories about their day, their childhood, or their relationships. 'I began to feel sick after lunch,' or 'We began dating three years ago.' It is a natural way to frame the start of any personal narrative. You will also hear 'began' in the workplace, particularly during project reviews or meetings. A manager might ask, 'When exactly began the decline in sales?' (though 'did the decline begin' is more common in questions). It is also used in formal speeches and presentations to mark the start of a new section or topic. 'Now that we have covered the basics, I began to look at the more advanced features' (though 'will begin' or 'am beginning' is more common for future/present, 'began' is used if the speaker is reflecting on a past part of the presentation).

Academic Context: Frequently used in research papers to describe the methodology or the start of a study.

The study began by selecting a diverse group of participants from across the country.

Furthermore, 'began' is common in the world of sports and entertainment. Commentators use it to describe the start of a match or a specific play: 'The game began with a high-energy offensive drive.' In music, 'began' can describe the start of a song or a musical era. 'The band began their career playing in small clubs in London.' This word is also found in legal documents and contracts to specify when certain obligations or terms started. 'The lease began on the first of January.' Across all these domains, 'began' serves as a precise, reliable, and universally understood marker of inception. Its presence in so many different areas of life makes it a vital word for any English learner to master, as it allows for the clear communication of time and sequence in almost any situation.

The tradition began hundreds of years ago and is still celebrated today.

Sports Commentary: Used to describe the opening moments of a competition or a specific period of play.

The race began under clear skies, but the weather soon turned treacherous.

The fire began in the basement and quickly spread to the upper floors.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with began is confusing it with its past participle form, 'begun'. This is a classic irregular verb trap. 'Began' is the simple past and stands alone: 'I began the work.' 'Begun' is the past participle and must be accompanied by an auxiliary verb like 'have', 'has', or 'had': 'I have begun the work.' Using 'begun' without an auxiliary (e.g., 'I begun the work') is a common error even among some native speakers, but it is grammatically incorrect in standard English. Conversely, using 'began' with an auxiliary (e.g., 'I have began') is also incorrect. Another common mistake is using 'began' when 'started' might be more appropriate, although they are often interchangeable. 'Started' is often preferred for mechanical actions (e.g., 'I started the car' rather than 'I began the car') or for actions that imply a sudden or physical movement.

Began vs. Begun: The most common error is swapping these two forms. Remember: 'began' is alone, 'begun' needs a helper.

Incorrect: He begun to shout. Correct: He began to shout.

Learners also sometimes struggle with the choice between 'began to [verb]' and 'began [verb-ing]'. While both are usually correct, using 'began' with a stative verb in the -ing form (e.g., 'began knowing' or 'began wanting') is generally avoided. It is much more natural to say 'began to know' or 'began to want'. Additionally, some learners mistakenly use 'began' in the present tense, saying things like 'The movie began now.' In this case, 'begins' or 'is beginning' should be used. There is also a tendency to over-rely on 'began' when other, more specific verbs might be better. For example, instead of 'The fire began,' one might say 'The fire ignited' or 'The fire broke out.' While 'began' is not wrong, it can sometimes be less descriptive than the alternatives. Finally, watch out for spelling; some learners accidentally double the 'n' in 'began' (e.g., 'begann'), which is incorrect.

Mechanical Actions: Avoid using 'began' for starting machines or engines; 'started' is the standard choice here.

Incorrect: I began the lawnmower. Correct: I started the lawnmower.

Another subtle mistake is using 'began' when the action was already in progress. If someone was already working when you arrived, you shouldn't say 'He began working when I arrived' unless the arrival was the trigger for him to start. If he was already working, you would use the past continuous: 'He was working when I arrived.' Misusing 'began' in this way can confuse the timeline of events for the listener. Furthermore, in formal writing, avoid using 'began' too many times in a single paragraph, as it can become repetitive. Use synonyms like 'commenced', 'initiated', or 'undertook' to add variety. Lastly, ensure that the subject of 'began' is capable of starting something. While 'The rain began' is fine, 'The mountain began' doesn't make sense unless it's followed by an action like 'The mountain began to crumble.' By being mindful of these common pitfalls, you can use 'began' with greater precision and confidence.

Incorrect: She has began her homework. Correct: She has begun her homework.

Stative Verbs: Prefer 'began to [verb]' over 'began [verb-ing]' when the verb describes a state or feeling.

Better: He began to believe her. (Instead of 'began believing').

Incorrect: The show begann late. Correct: The show began late.

While began is a versatile and common word, there are several alternatives that can provide more specific meaning or a different tone. The most common synonym is 'started'. In many cases, they are interchangeable: 'The meeting began at 9' and 'The meeting started at 9' mean the same thing. However, 'started' is often felt to be more informal and is the preferred choice for physical actions or starting machines. For more formal or academic contexts, 'commenced' is a strong alternative. 'The graduation ceremony commenced at noon' sounds more official than 'The graduation ceremony began.' Another formal option is 'initiated', which is often used when someone intentionally starts a process or a plan: 'The government initiated a new policy.' 'Launched' is frequently used for projects, websites, or products: 'The company launched its new app last week.'

Began vs. Started: 'Began' is slightly more formal and narrative; 'started' is more common in daily speech and for mechanical actions.

The festivities commenced with a grand parade through the city center.

If you want to describe the start of something negative or sudden, 'broke out' is a good phrasal verb. 'A fire broke out' or 'War broke out.' For the start of a journey, 'set out' or 'set off' are excellent choices: 'They set out on their hike at dawn.' To describe the very first moment of something, you might use 'originated': 'The rumor originated in the marketing department.' If something starts to exist or appear, 'emerged' or 'arose' could be used: 'A new problem arose during the meeting.' 'Inaugurated' is a very specific word used for the formal start of a person's term in office or the opening of a new building. 'The new president was inaugurated in January.' By choosing the right alternative, you can make your writing more precise and evocative, tailoring your language to the specific situation you are describing.

Began vs. Commenced: 'Commenced' is highly formal and often used in legal, official, or ceremonial contexts.

The scientist initiated the sequence by pressing the red button.

Other useful alternatives include 'embarked on' for starting a long or important task: 'She embarked on a new career in teaching.' 'Triggered' is used when one event causes another to start: 'The loud noise triggered the alarm.' 'Instituted' is common for starting new rules or systems: 'The school instituted a new dress code.' For the start of a feeling or an idea, 'dawned on' can be used: 'It finally dawned on him that he was lost.' 'Set in' is often used for weather or feelings that are likely to last: 'Winter set in early that year' or 'Boredom set in after an hour.' Understanding these nuances allows you to move beyond basic vocabulary and express yourself with the sophistication of a high-level English speaker. Each of these words carries its own 'flavor' and emotional weight, helping you to paint a clearer picture for your audience.

They set out on their journey across the desert with great caution.

Began vs. Launched: 'Launched' implies a significant effort or a public introduction of something new.

The organization instituted several changes to improve workplace safety.

Panic set in as the passengers realized the ship was tilting.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The 'ginnan' part of the original word is related to the word 'gin', which in old contexts meant an opening or a gap. So, to 'begin' literally meant to 'open up' a new action.

Guide de prononciation

UK /bɪˈɡæn/

US /bɪˈɡæn/

The stress is on the second syllable: be-GAN.

Rime avec

ran can man plan span fan tan van

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing it as 'be-gun' (confusing it with the participle).
Putting the stress on the first syllable (BE-gan).
Using a long 'a' sound (be-gain).
Pronouncing the 'g' too softly.
Adding an extra syllable (be-gan-ned).

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

Very common word, easy to recognize in text.

Écriture 3/5

Requires remembering the irregular past tense form.

Expression orale 2/5

Commonly used and easy to pronounce.

Écoute 2/5

Easily understood in conversation.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

begin start past yesterday time

Apprends ensuite

begun commenced initiated since for

Avancé

inception inauguration nascent embark instigate

Grammaire à connaître

Irregular Past Tense

begin -> began (not beginned)

Past Participle with Auxiliaries

has begun (not has began)

Verb + To-Infinitive

began to walk

Verb + Gerund

began walking

It-Construction for Weather

It began to rain.

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Exemples par niveau

The movie began at seven o'clock.

La película comenzó a las siete.

Simple past tense of 'begin'.

It began to rain yesterday.

Empezó a llover ayer.

Used with 'it' for weather.

The class began ten minutes ago.

La clase empezó hace diez minutos.

Used with a time duration ('ago').

She began her lunch at noon.

Ella empezó su almuerzo al mediodía.

Transitive use with a direct object.

The game began with a whistle.

El juego comenzó con un silbato.

Shows the starting signal.

He began to walk to school.

Él empezó a caminar a la escuela.

Followed by a 'to-infinitive'.

The music began suddenly.

La música empezó de repente.

Modified by an adverb.

I began my book last night.

Empecé mi libro anoche.

Simple past for a personal action.

They began their journey early in the morning.

Ellos empezaron su viaje temprano en la mañana.

Describes the start of a trip.

She began playing the piano when she was five.

Ella empezó a tocar el piano cuando tenía cinco años.

Followed by a gerund (-ing).

The snow began to fall as we left the house.

La nieve empezó a caer cuando salimos de la casa.

Describes a change in weather.

He began to feel better after taking the medicine.

Él empezó a sentirse mejor después de tomar la medicina.

Describes a change in state.

The party began at 8 PM and lasted until midnight.

La fiesta empezó a las 8 PM y duró hasta la medianoche.

Used to establish a timeframe.

We began our meeting with a short introduction.

Empezamos nuestra reunión con una breve introducción.

Describes the start of a formal event.

The baby began to cry for milk.

El bebé empezó a llorar por leche.

Shows the onset of an action.

I began to understand the lesson after the teacher explained it again.

Empecé a entender la lección después de que el profesor la explicara de nuevo.

Describes a gradual realization.

The construction of the new bridge began last summer.

La construcción del nuevo puente comenzó el verano pasado.

Describes the start of a major project.

She began her career as a journalist in a small town.

Ella comenzó su carrera como periodista en un pueblo pequeño.

Describes a professional starting point.

The conversation began to get more serious.

La conversación empezó a volverse más seria.

Describes a change in tone.

He began by thanking everyone for their hard work.

Él comenzó agradeciendo a todos por su arduo trabajo.

The 'began by [verb-ing]' pattern.

The symptoms began to appear a few days after the infection.

Los síntomas empezaron a aparecer unos días después de la infección.

Medical context for the onset of signs.

They began to realize that they were in the wrong place.

Empezaron a darse cuenta de que estaban en el lugar equivocado.

Describes a mental realization.

The fire began in the kitchen and spread quickly.

El fuego comenzó en la cocina y se extendió rápidamente.

Describes the origin of an event.

As the sun set, the forest began to grow quiet.

A medida que el sol se ponía, el bosque empezó a quedarse en silencio.

Atmospheric description.

The movement for social reform began in the early 20th century.

El movimiento para la reforma social comenzó a principios del siglo XX.

Describes the start of a historical movement.

She began to doubt her own abilities after the failure.

Ella empezó a dudar de sus propias capacidades después del fracaso.

Describes a psychological shift.

The negotiations began in earnest after weeks of preparation.

Las negociaciones comenzaron en serio después de semanas de preparación.

Used with the phrase 'in earnest'.

The company began to expand its operations into international markets.

La empresa comenzó a expandir sus operaciones a los mercados internacionales.

Describes business growth.

He began his speech with a powerful quote from a famous philosopher.

Él comenzó su discurso con una poderosa cita de un filósofo famoso.

Describes a rhetorical opening.

The audience began to applaud even before the performance ended.

El público empezó a aplaudir incluso antes de que terminara la actuación.

Shows a spontaneous reaction.

The tradition began as a way to celebrate the harvest.

La tradición comenzó como una forma de celebrar la cosecha.

Explains the origin of a custom.

The rain began to wash away the dust from the streets.

La lluvia empezó a lavar el polvo de las calles.

Descriptive and slightly metaphorical.

The erosion of public trust began with a series of political scandals.

La erosión de la confianza pública comenzó con una serie de escándalos políticos.

Describes a complex social process.

He began to suspect that there was more to the story than met the eye.

Empezó a sospechar que había más en la historia de lo que parecía.

Describes a nuanced mental state.

The project began as a small experiment but soon grew into a major initiative.

El proyecto comenzó como un pequeño experimento pero pronto se convirtió en una iniciativa importante.

Describes the evolution of an idea.

She began her research by reviewing all the existing literature on the subject.

Ella comenzó su investigación revisando toda la literatura existente sobre el tema.

Describes a formal academic process.

The decline of the empire began with a period of economic instability.

El declive del imperio comenzó con un período de inestabilidad económica.

Historical analysis of a large-scale event.

The music began to swell, reaching a dramatic climax.

La música empezó a crecer, alcanzando un clímax dramático.

Literary description of sound.

He began to articulate his vision for the future of the company.

Él empezó a articular su visión para el futuro de la empresa.

Describes a sophisticated communicative act.

The friendship began to fray under the pressure of their competing interests.

La amistad empezó a desgastarse bajo la presión de sus intereses en competencia.

Metaphorical use for a relationship.

The philosophical inquiry began with a fundamental question about the nature of existence.

La indagación filosófica comenzó con una pregunta fundamental sobre la naturaleza de la existencia.

Describes the start of a deep intellectual process.

The transformation of the landscape began with the introduction of invasive species.

La transformación del paisaje comenzó con la introducción de especies invasoras.

Scientific and environmental context.

She began to dismantle the arguments of her opponents with surgical precision.

Ella empezó a desmantelar los argumentos de sus oponentes con precisión quirúrgica.

Metaphorical use in a formal debate.

The era of enlightenment began as a reaction against dogmatic thinking.

La era de la ilustración comenzó como una reacción contra el pensamiento dogmático.

Describes a major cultural and intellectual shift.

The poem began with an invocation of the muses, setting a solemn tone.

El poema comenzó con una invocación de las musas, estableciendo un tono solemne.

Literary analysis of a classic structure.

He began to perceive the underlying patterns that governed the chaotic system.

Empezó a percibir los patrones subyacentes que gobernaban el sistema caótico.

Describes a high-level cognitive realization.

The legal proceedings began with a challenge to the jurisdiction of the court.

Los procedimientos legales comenzaron con un desafío a la jurisdicción del tribunal.

Formal legal context.

The slow process of reconciliation began with a simple gesture of goodwill.

El lento proceso de reconciliación comenzó con un simple gesto de buena voluntad.

Describes a delicate social process.

Collocations courantes

began to cry

began to realize

began to rain

began a new life

began work

began his career

began with a

began to suspect

began to laugh

began to doubt

Phrases Courantes

It all began when...

— A common way to start telling a story or explaining how something started.

It all began when I met him at a coffee shop.

began by saying

— Used to describe the first words of a speech or conversation.

He began by saying how happy he was to be there.

began to take shape

— Used when an idea or project starts to become more organized or clear.

Our plans for the summer began to take shape.

began to take effect

— Used when a medicine or a rule starts to have an impact.

The painkiller began to take effect after twenty minutes.

began to fade

— Used when something starts to disappear or lose its strength.

The light began to fade as evening approached.

began to worry

— Used to describe the onset of anxiety or concern.

I began to worry when she didn't answer her phone.

began to wonder

— Used when someone starts to think about or question something.

I began to wonder if I had made a mistake.

began to grow

— Used for the start of physical or metaphorical growth.

The plants began to grow after the rain.

began to move

— Used for the start of physical motion.

The train began to move slowly out of the station.

began to speak

— Used when someone starts talking, often after a silence.

Finally, she began to speak about her experiences.

Souvent confondu avec

began vs begun

Begun is the past participle and needs 'has/have/had'. Began is the simple past and stands alone.

began vs started

Started is more common for machines and informal contexts. Began is more narrative.

began vs begins

Begins is present tense; began is past tense.

Expressions idiomatiques

"charity began at home"

— A variation of the proverb 'charity begins at home', used to say that one's first duty is to their own family.

He helped his neighbors, but for him, charity began at home.

informal/proverbial

"began on the wrong foot"

— To start a relationship or task badly.

The meeting began on the wrong foot when he arrived late.

informal

"began with a bang"

— To start something in a very exciting or successful way.

The festival began with a bang with a huge firework display.

informal

"began to see the light"

— To start to understand something that was previously confusing.

After hours of studying, I finally began to see the light.

informal

"began to feel the pinch"

— To start to experience financial hardship.

As prices rose, many families began to feel the pinch.

informal

"began to smell a rat"

— To start to suspect that something is wrong or dishonest.

When he changed his story, I began to smell a rat.

informal

"began to turn the tide"

— To start to change a situation, usually from losing to winning.

The new reinforcements began to turn the tide of the battle.

metaphorical

"began to lose heart"

— To start to lose hope or courage.

The hikers began to lose heart as the storm worsened.

literary

"began to make waves"

— To start to cause trouble or to start to be noticed by doing something new.

The young politician began to make waves with her bold ideas.

informal

"began to pull his weight"

— To start doing one's fair share of work.

After a warning from the boss, he finally began to pull his weight.

informal

Facile à confondre

began vs begun

They are both forms of 'begin'.

Began is simple past (I began). Begun is past participle (I have begun).

I began the book yesterday, but I haven't begun the second chapter yet.

began vs started

They have the same meaning.

Started is more common for physical or mechanical actions. Began is more formal and narrative.

I started the engine, and then the journey began.

began vs commenced

They have the same meaning.

Commenced is much more formal and used for official events.

The ceremony commenced after the guests began to arrive.

began vs initiated

They both mean to start something.

Initiated implies a deliberate, often technical or formal, starting of a process.

The manager initiated the project after the team began their research.

began vs launched

They both mean to start something.

Launched is specifically for products, websites, or major public initiatives.

The company launched the app after they began the marketing phase.

Structures de phrases

Subject + began + at + time

The class began at 9.

Subject + began + to + verb

He began to run.

Subject + began + by + gerund

She began by introducing herself.

Subject + began + with + noun

The meeting began with a discussion.

Abstract Subject + began + with + noun

The decline began with a crisis.

Subject + began + to + sophisticated verb

He began to articulate his vision.

It + began + to + weather verb

It began to thunder.

Subject + began + noun

I began my homework.

Famille de mots

Noms

beginning

beginner

Verbes

begin

begins

beginning

begun

Adjectifs

beginning

Apparenté

start

inception

origin

commencement

initiation

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Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Very high in both spoken and written English.

Erreurs courantes

I have began my work. → I have begun my work.
You must use the past participle 'begun' with the auxiliary verb 'have'. 'Began' is only for the simple past.
The movie begun at 8 PM. → The movie began at 8 PM.
For the simple past without a helping verb, you must use 'began'. 'Begun' is incorrect here.
I began the car engine. → I started the car engine.
While 'began' and 'started' are similar, 'started' is the standard choice for mechanical actions like turning on an engine.
When did the class began? → When did the class begin?
In questions with 'did', you must use the base form of the verb (begin), not the past tense (began).
It began raining yesterday. → It began to rain yesterday. (or It began raining)
While 'began raining' is okay, 'began to rain' is often more common for weather. The mistake is usually in the tense of 'began' itself.

Astuces

Began vs. Begun

Always remember that 'began' is the lone wolf—it doesn't need a helping verb. 'Begun' is the team player—it always needs 'have', 'has', or 'had' to work correctly.

Formal vs. Informal

Use 'began' in your essays and stories to sound more professional. Use 'started' when you're talking to your friends or talking about your car.

Single 'N'

Don't be tempted to add an extra 'n' at the end of 'began'. It's always spelled with just one 'n', even though it sounds like it could have two.

Vary Your Verbs

If you find yourself using 'began' too much in a story, try using 'started', 'set out', or 'commenced' to keep your writing interesting.

Stress the End

Make sure you put the emphasis on the second part of the word: be-GAN. This will make your speech sound more natural and clear.

Weather Transitions

'Began' is the perfect word for describing changes in the weather. 'It began to rain' or 'The wind began to howl' are classic English phrases.

Memorize the Trio

Learn 'begin, began, begun' as a single unit. Saying them out loud together will help you remember which one is which.

Setting the Scene

Use 'began' at the start of a paragraph to establish a new timeframe or a new action in your story.

Key Information

When you hear 'began', pay close attention—it usually signals that something important is about to happen in the narrative.

Answering Questions

When someone asks you 'When did it start?', you can answer with 'It began at...' to show off your vocabulary.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of 'Began' as 'Be Gone' with the past. The 'A' in began stands for 'Action in the past'.

Association visuelle

Imagine a runner starting a race at a starting line that is behind you (in the past).

Word Web

start past action initiate story yesterday moment sequence

Défi

Write three sentences about what you did yesterday, using 'began' in each one to describe different starting points.

Origine du mot

The word 'began' comes from the Old English 'be-ginnan', which meant to start or to open. It is a Germanic word with roots that are shared with other languages like Dutch and German. Over centuries, the spelling and pronunciation evolved into the modern English 'began'.

Sens originel : To start, to initiate, or to open up a process.

Germanic

Contexte culturel

No specific sensitivities; it is a neutral, factual word.

Commonly used in storytelling and news to provide a clear timeline of events.

The Bible: 'In the beginning...' Charles Dickens: Many of his novels use 'began' to set the scene. Star Wars: 'A long time ago... the story began.'

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Weather

It began to rain.
The wind began to blow.
The snow began to fall.
The sun began to set.

Work/School

The meeting began.
The class began.
I began my project.
The shift began.

Personal Life

We began dating.
I began to feel sick.
He began to worry.
She began a new hobby.

Events

The concert began.
The game began.
The show began.
The party began.

Stories

The journey began.
The adventure began.
The trouble began.
It all began when...

Amorces de conversation

"Tell me about how your interest in your favorite hobby began."

"When exactly began your journey to learn English?"

"What began the most memorable day of your life?"

"How began your friendship with your best friend?"

"When began the last movie you saw at the cinema?"

Sujets d'écriture

Describe a project you began recently and how you felt at the start.

Write about a time when a simple conversation began a major change in your life.

Reflect on how your day began today and what you could have done differently.

Describe the moment when you began to feel like an adult.

Write about a historical event that began in your country and its impact.

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

It is 'I began'. 'Begun' is the past participle and requires a helping verb like 'have' or 'had'. For example, 'I began the project' is correct, while 'I begun the project' is incorrect. You would say 'I have begun the project'.

In most cases, yes. However, 'started' is often preferred for mechanical actions (e.g., 'started the car') and in informal speech. 'Began' is slightly more formal and is very common in storytelling and formal writing.

Both are grammatically correct and mean almost the same thing. 'Began to work' can sometimes feel more specific to a single moment, while 'began working' might emphasize the ongoing nature of the work. Choose the one that sounds better in your sentence.

The past tense is spelled B-E-G-A-N. A common mistake is to double the 'n' (begann), but that is incorrect. Another mistake is to use 'begun', which is the past participle form.

Use 'commenced' in very formal situations, such as legal documents, official ceremonies (like a graduation), or academic writing. In everyday conversation and most stories, 'began' or 'started' is much more natural.

No, 'began' is strictly for the past. For the future, you should use 'will begin' or 'is going to begin'. For example, 'The show will begin at 8 PM tonight'.

'Began' is the simple past and describes a completed action of starting. 'Was beginning' is the past continuous and describes an action of starting that was in progress at a specific time in the past. For example, 'It began to rain' vs. 'It was beginning to rain when I left'.

Yes, 'begin' is an irregular verb because its past tense (began) and past participle (begun) do not follow the standard '-ed' rule. You must memorize these forms: begin, began, begun.

Yes, that is perfectly correct. You can also say 'The fire started' or 'The fire broke out'. 'Began' is a very common way to describe the origin of a fire or other natural events.

In a question, you usually use the auxiliary 'did' and the base form 'begin'. For example, 'When did the movie begin?' You would not say 'When did the movie began?'

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