This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

B1 noun|adjective|verb #32 most common 12 min read

starting

Top 32

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips starting in 30 Seconds

Explanation starting in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'starting' is a very important word because it helps you talk about things you are doing right now. You will mostly use it in the present continuous tense, like 'I am starting my homework' or 'The class is starting.' It means that something was not happening before, but it is happening now. You might also hear it when someone talks about a 'starting price' in a shop or a 'starting time' for a party. It is a simple word that shows action and change. You can think of it like the green light on a traffic signal. When you see 'starting,' it means 'Go!' or 'Begin!' It is one of the first words you learn to describe the beginning of your day or your activities. For example, 'I am starting my day with coffee.' This is a very common way to use the word. You should also know that 'starting' is the '-ing' form of 'start.' So, if you know 'start,' you can easily understand 'starting.' It is used for people, machines, and events. You can start a car, you can start a race, and you can start a conversation. At this level, don't worry too much about the grammar rules; just remember that 'starting' means the beginning of an action.

At the A2 level, you begin to use 'starting' in more varied ways. You will notice it being used as an adjective to describe things, such as a 'starting salary' or a 'starting point.' This helps you give more detail in your sentences. You will also use it with other verbs, like 'It is starting to rain' or 'I am starting to learn English.' Notice that after 'starting,' we often use 'to' and another verb. This is a very common pattern. You might also use 'starting' to talk about the future, like 'I am starting my new job next Monday.' Even though it looks like the present, it describes a plan for the future. You will also encounter the word in common phrases like 'starting line' in sports. At this level, you should be careful with spelling; don't confuse 'starting' with 'staring' (looking with eyes wide open). 'Starting' has a 't' in the middle. You can also use 'starting' to describe the beginning of a process. For example, 'The computer is starting up.' This is a phrasal verb ('start up') used in the continuous form. Understanding these different uses will help you speak more naturally and describe your life more accurately.

At the B1 level, you are expected to use 'starting' with more confidence and precision. You should understand the difference between 'starting' and 'beginning' in various contexts. While they are often synonyms, 'starting' is more frequent in informal speech and for mechanical or physical actions. You will also use 'starting' as a gerund, where it acts like a noun. For example, 'Starting a business is difficult.' Here, 'starting' is the subject of the sentence. You should also be familiar with collocations like 'starting position,' 'starting lineup,' and 'starting capital.' These are fixed expressions that native speakers use all the time. You will also use 'starting' to introduce a timeframe, such as 'Starting from tomorrow, I will exercise every day.' This is a very useful way to set goals or announce changes. At this level, you should also be aware of the emotional nuances of the word. 'Starting' can imply excitement, nervousness, or a fresh beginning. You might use it in more complex sentence structures, like 'I was just starting to feel comfortable when the phone rang.' This shows a transition between two states. You should also practice using it in the past continuous and future continuous tenses to describe beginnings at different points in time.

At the B2 level, you should be able to use 'starting' in sophisticated ways, including as a participle clause to add variety to your writing. For example, 'Starting with a small investment, he eventually built a massive empire.' In this sentence, 'starting' introduces a subordinate clause that provides background information. You should also understand the nuances between 'starting,' 'commencing,' and 'initiating.' You would use 'commencing' in a formal report or a legal document, while 'starting' remains the standard for everyday professional and personal communication. You should also be comfortable with idiomatic expressions and phrasal verbs involving 'starting,' such as 'starting out' (beginning a career) or 'starting over' (beginning again from the beginning). You will also encounter 'starting' in more technical or specialized contexts, such as 'starting torque' in engineering or 'starting price' in auctions. Your ability to choose the right word for the right register is key at this level. You should also be able to explain the grammatical function of 'starting' in a sentence—whether it's a present participle, a gerund, or an adjective. This deeper understanding will help you avoid common mistakes and write more academic or professional English.

At the C1 level, your use of 'starting' should be seamless and contextually perfect. You will use it to create complex, nuanced sentences that flow naturally. You might use it in rhetorical structures, such as 'Starting from the premise that all people are equal...' to build an argument. You should also be aware of the subtle differences in meaning when 'starting' is used in different fields. In finance, 'starting capital' has a very specific meaning, as does 'starting lineup' in sports management. You should be able to use 'starting' to describe subtle transitions in thought or feeling, such as 'I am starting to suspect that the data might be flawed.' This level of nuance is essential for high-level academic and professional communication. You should also be able to identify and correct subtle errors in the use of 'starting' in the writing of others. For example, you would know that 'starting raining' is grammatically possible but stylistically inferior to 'starting to rain' in most contexts. You should also be familiar with the etymology of the word and how its meaning has evolved over time, which can give you a deeper appreciation for its use in literature and historical texts. Your vocabulary should include a wide range of synonyms that you can use to avoid repetition and add precision to your work.

At the C2 level, you have complete mastery over the word 'starting' and all its related forms. You can use it with total flexibility in any register, from the most informal slang to the most formal academic prose. You might use it in highly stylized writing, employing it in participle phrases to create a specific rhythm or emphasis. For example, 'Starting, as it does, with a single, haunting note, the symphony immediately captures the listener's attention.' You understand the historical development of the word from its Old English roots and how it relates to other Germanic languages. You are also aware of the most obscure idioms and technical uses of the word. Your ability to use 'starting' is so natural that you don't even have to think about the grammar; you simply choose the most effective word for the situation. You can also play with the word's meaning in creative writing, using it to evoke specific moods or to create double meanings. At this level, you are not just a learner of the language; you are a master of its nuances, and 'starting' is just one of the many tools in your extensive linguistic toolkit. You can use it to lead discussions, write persuasive essays, and engage in complex debates with native speakers on equal footing.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

starting in 30 Seconds

The word 'starting' is the present participle of 'start,' used to describe an action that is beginning right now or a process that has just commenced.
As an adjective, 'starting' identifies the first or initial part of something, such as a starting salary, starting point, or starting lineup in sports.
As a gerund (noun), 'starting' refers to the act of beginning itself, often used as the subject of a sentence like 'Starting a new job is exciting.'
It is a versatile word used in many contexts, including technology (starting a computer), finance (starting capital), and everyday life (starting a conversation).

The word starting is a versatile English term that functions across multiple grammatical categories, primarily serving as the present participle of the verb 'start,' a gerund (noun), or an adjective. At its core, it signifies the point in time or space where something begins. In a temporal sense, it marks the commencement of an action, such as starting a new job or starting a car. Spatially, it refers to the point of origin, like the starting line of a marathon. People use this word in almost every facet of life, from the mundane act of starting a conversation to the high-stakes environment of starting a multi-million dollar corporation. The term carries an inherent energy of potential and movement, suggesting that a state of rest or inactivity has ended and a process has been set in motion.

As a Noun (Gerund): In this form, 'starting' refers to the act itself. For example, 'The starting of the engine was a relief.' Here, it describes the event of the engine beginning to run.
As an Adjective: It describes something that is at the beginning. A 'starting salary' is the initial pay a worker receives. A 'starting point' is the location where a journey begins.

The starting pistol fired, and the runners lunged forward with incredible speed.

In professional contexts, 'starting' is frequently used to denote the initial phase of projects. Managers talk about the 'starting phase' to define the period of planning and resource allocation. In sports, the 'starting lineup' refers to the players who are on the field at the very beginning of the match. This distinction is crucial because being a 'starter' often implies a higher status or greater responsibility than being a substitute. The word also appears frequently in financial discussions, particularly regarding 'starting capital,' which is the money required to launch a business venture. Understanding 'starting' requires recognizing whether it is describing an action in progress, a characteristic of a noun, or the noun itself.

We are starting to see the benefits of our hard work after months of effort.

Common Contexts: 1. Education: Starting a new semester or a new course of study.
2. Technology: Starting a computer or a software application.
3. Relationships: Starting a family or starting a conversation with a stranger.

The starting point for any great achievement is the desire to succeed.

The starting blocks were adjusted carefully by the Olympic sprinter.

Emotional Nuance: The word can evoke feelings of excitement, anxiety, or hope. Starting something new often involves leaving a comfort zone, which is why 'starting' is so frequently associated with courage and initiative.

After the long winter, the flowers are finally starting to bloom.

Using 'starting' correctly involves understanding its role as a dynamic element in a sentence. When used as a verb in the present continuous tense, it indicates an action that is currently beginning. For instance, 'I am starting my dinner' suggests that the act of eating has just begun. This is distinct from the simple present 'I start,' which describes a habit or a scheduled event. The continuous form 'starting' emphasizes the process and the immediate transition from not doing to doing. It is also frequently used in the past continuous ('I was starting') and future continuous ('I will be starting') to describe beginnings relative to other points in time.

The Adjectival Use: When 'starting' modifies a noun, it usually precedes it directly. Examples include 'starting position,' 'starting price,' and 'starting date.' In these cases, it functions to identify the first instance or the base level of the noun it modifies.

The starting price for the antique vase was five hundred dollars.

Another common usage is as a prepositional phrase or an introductory element, such as 'Starting tomorrow...' or 'Starting from the top...' This usage establishes a temporal or logical boundary for the information that follows. It acts as a signal to the listener or reader about when a new rule, schedule, or perspective begins to apply. For example, 'Starting next week, the office will be closed on Fridays' clearly sets the timeframe for the new policy. This is a very efficient way to provide context in both spoken and written English.

Starting with the basics is the best way to learn a complex subject.

Verb Patterns: 'Starting' can be followed by a noun phrase ('starting the car'), a gerund ('starting running'), or an infinitive ('starting to run'). While the gerund-gerund combination ('starting running') is grammatically correct, it can sound repetitive, so 'starting to run' is usually preferred for better flow.

She is starting a new chapter in her life by moving to a different country.

The starting gun signaled the beginning of the race.

Collocations with 'Starting': Common pairs include 'starting point,' 'starting position,' 'starting lineup,' 'starting salary,' and 'starting gate.' These are fixed expressions that should be learned as single units of meaning.

We are starting from scratch because the previous plan failed.

In the real world, 'starting' is a word that bridges the gap between formal and informal communication. In a corporate boardroom, you might hear a CEO say, 'We are starting our expansion into Asian markets this quarter.' This uses the word to denote a strategic commencement. Conversely, in a casual setting, a friend might say, 'I'm starting to think we're lost,' using the word to express a developing realization. The word is ubiquitous in media as well; news anchors often use phrases like 'Starting today, new traffic laws are in effect,' or 'The starting lineup for the game has been announced.' Its frequency in daily life makes it one of the most essential words for any English learner to master.

In Sports Broadcasting: Commentators constantly use 'starting' to describe the beginning of plays, the 'starting eleven' in soccer, or the 'starting pitcher' in baseball. It is a fundamental part of the sports lexicon.

The coach is starting the rookie player for the first time tonight.

In the world of technology and software, 'starting' is everywhere. When you turn on a device, you might see a 'starting' screen or a progress bar indicating that the system is 'starting up.' In programming, 'starting' often refers to the execution of a script or the initialization of a variable. For example, a developer might say, 'We are starting the server now.' This technical usage is very precise, referring to the transition from an idle state to an active, operational state. Even in automated voice systems, you will hear, 'Starting your call now,' which provides a clear signal of the transition to the next phase of the interaction.

The computer is starting up, so please wait a moment before logging in.

In Creative Arts: Writers and artists often talk about 'starting a new project' or 'starting with a blank canvas.' In music, 'starting' can refer to the beginning of a song or the 'starting note' of a melody.

The band is starting their world tour in London this summer.

I am starting to understand why this movie is so popular.

In Everyday Conversation: You will hear 'starting' in phrases like 'starting a family,' 'starting a fight,' or 'starting a fire.' It is a high-frequency word used to describe the inception of both positive and negative events.

They are starting a new tradition of having dinner together every Sunday.

One of the most frequent errors involving 'starting' is the confusion between the present continuous ('is starting') and the simple present ('starts'). Learners often say 'The movie is starting at 8 PM' when they should say 'The movie starts at 8 PM.' While the former is often used in casual speech to imply the event is about to happen, the simple present is the standard way to describe scheduled future events. Another common mistake is the double '-ing' construction. While 'starting doing' is technically correct, it can sound awkward. For example, 'I am starting eating' is much less natural than 'I am starting to eat.' Native speakers almost always prefer the infinitive 'to [verb]' after the continuous form 'starting' to avoid the repetitive sound of the '-ing' suffix.

Spelling Errors: A common spelling mistake is 'staring' instead of 'starting.' While they look similar, 'staring' (from the verb 'stare') means looking fixedly at something. Forgetting the 't' completely changes the meaning of the sentence.

Incorrect: I am staring my new job today. (Should be 'starting')

Another area of confusion is the use of 'starting' versus 'beginning.' While they are often interchangeable, 'starting' is more commonly used for mechanical actions (starting a car) or physical movement (starting a race). 'Beginning' is often preferred for more abstract or formal contexts (the beginning of the universe, the beginning of the book). Using 'starting' in a very formal context where 'commencing' or 'beginning' is expected can sometimes make the writing feel slightly too informal. Additionally, learners sometimes forget the auxiliary verb in continuous forms, saying 'I starting' instead of 'I am starting.' This is a fundamental grammatical error that significantly impacts the clarity of the sentence.

Correct: It is starting to rain. (More natural than 'starting raining')

Misusing 'Starting' as a Preposition: Sometimes people use 'starting' when they mean 'since.' For example, 'Starting Monday, I have been sick' is incorrect. It should be 'Since Monday, I have been sick.' 'Starting' points forward in time, while 'since' points backward.

Correct: Starting Monday, I will be on vacation. (Points to the future)

I am starting to realize that learning English takes a lot of practice.

Confusing 'Starting' and 'Start-up': 'Starting' is an action or adjective, while 'start-up' (or startup) is a specific type of newly formed company. You 'start' a 'start-up,' but you don't 'starting' a 'start-up.'

He is starting a tech startup in Silicon Valley.

While 'starting' is a highly functional word, expanding your vocabulary with its synonyms can add precision and variety to your English. The most common alternative is 'beginning.' In many cases, they are interchangeable, but 'beginning' often feels slightly more formal or literary. For example, 'the beginning of the story' sounds more natural than 'the starting of the story.' Another powerful alternative is 'commencing,' which is highly formal and often used in legal, academic, or ceremonial contexts. You might hear 'The graduation ceremony is commencing' or 'Commencing on the first of July, the new tax laws will apply.' This word adds a level of gravity and officiality that 'starting' lacks.

Starting vs. Beginning: 'Starting' is often used for physical or mechanical actions (starting a car), while 'beginning' is used for more abstract or conceptual starts (the beginning of an era).
Starting vs. Initiating: 'Initiating' implies a more deliberate, often complex process. You 'initiate' a sequence, a protocol, or a formal discussion. It suggests a high degree of control and intentionality.

The company is initiating a new safety protocol for all employees.

For more informal or energetic contexts, you might use 'launching.' This is particularly common in business and marketing, where you 'launch' a product, a website, or a campaign. It carries a sense of excitement and a sudden, powerful start. Similarly, 'embarking' is a beautiful alternative used when starting a long or significant journey, whether physical or metaphorical. One 'embarks' on a voyage or 'embarks' on a new career path. This word evokes a sense of adventure and long-term commitment. In technical contexts, 'initializing' is often used, especially in computer science, to describe the process of setting up a system or variable for use.

They are embarking on a journey across the Atlantic Ocean.

Starting vs. Triggering: 'Triggering' is used when one event causes another to start, often automatically or as a reaction. For example, 'The smoke triggered the alarm.'

The commencement speaker gave an inspiring address to the graduates.

The city is inaugurating a new public park this weekend.

Summary Table: - Starting: General, physical, mechanical.
- Beginning: Abstract, literary, conceptual.
- Commencing: Very formal, official.
- Launching: Energetic, business-focused.
- Initiating: Controlled, process-oriented.

We are starting to explore new ways to reduce our carbon footprint.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

In the 14th century, 'starting' was often used to describe the sudden movement of animals when they were startled. This is why we still use the word 'startled' today to mean surprised or frightened.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈstɑː.tɪŋ/

US /ˈstɑːr.tɪŋ/

The stress is on the first syllable: STAR-ting.

Rhymes With

parting charting darting hearting smarting carting marting departing

Common Errors

Pronouncing it as 'staring' (missing the 't' sound).
Over-emphasizing the 'g' at the end.
Pronouncing the 'ar' like the 'a' in 'cat'.
In US English, failing to pronounce the 'r'.
Misplacing the stress on the second syllable.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Very easy to recognize in text as it is a high-frequency word.

Writing 3/5

Requires understanding of different grammatical roles (verb, noun, adjective).

Speaking 2/5

Commonly used in daily speech; pronunciation is straightforward.

Listening 2/5

Easily understood in most contexts, though it can be confused with 'staring'.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

start begin now first new

Learn Next

commence initiate launch inception preliminary

Advanced

inaugurate instigate originate activate embark

Grammar to Know

Present Continuous Tense

I am starting my work.

Gerunds as Subjects

Starting a fire is difficult in the rain.

Adjectives before Nouns

The starting price was high.

Verbs followed by Infinitives

It is starting to snow.

Participle Clauses

Starting with the basics, we learned the whole system.

Examples by Level

I am starting my lunch now.

Je commence mon déjeuner maintenant.

Present continuous tense: am + starting.

The game is starting.

Le jeu commence.

Present continuous used for an immediate action.

She is starting her homework.

Elle commence ses devoirs.

Subject (She) + is + starting.

The bus is starting to move.

Le bus commence à bouger.

Starting + infinitive (to move).

We are starting the movie.

Nous commençons le film.

We + are + starting.

Is the class starting?

Le cours commence-t-il ?

Question form: Is + subject + starting?

I am starting to feel cold.

Je commence à avoir froid.

Starting + infinitive (to feel).

They are starting a new game.

Ils commencent un nouveau jeu.

They + are + starting.

What is your starting salary?

Quel est votre salaire de départ ?

Starting used as an adjective modifying 'salary'.

It is starting to rain outside.

Il commence à pleuvoir dehors.

Starting + infinitive (to rain).

I am starting my new job on Monday.

Je commence mon nouveau travail lundi.

Present continuous used for a future plan.

The starting line is over there.

La ligne de départ est là-bas.

Starting used as an adjective modifying 'line'.

Are you starting to understand?

Commencez-vous à comprendre ?

Question form with 'starting to'.

The computer is starting up slowly.

L'ordinateur démarre lentement.

Phrasal verb 'start up' in the continuous form.

We are starting a new project at school.

Nous commençons un nouveau projet à l'école.

Starting + noun phrase (a new project).

The starting price was very low.

Le prix de départ était très bas.

Starting used as an adjective modifying 'price'.

Starting a business requires a lot of courage.

Créer une entreprise demande beaucoup de courage.

Starting used as a gerund (noun) and the subject of the sentence.

I was starting to worry when you didn't call.

Je commençais à m'inquiéter quand tu n'as pas appelé.

Past continuous tense: was + starting.

The coach announced the starting lineup for the game.

L'entraîneur a annoncé la composition de départ pour le match.

Starting used as an adjective in a sports context.

Starting next week, we will have a new schedule.

À partir de la semaine prochaine, nous aurons un nouvel emploi du temps.

Starting used as an introductory element to set a timeframe.

She is starting out as a freelance writer.

Elle débute comme rédactrice indépendante.

Phrasal verb 'starting out' meaning beginning a career.

The starting point of the hike is at the base of the mountain.

Le point de départ de la randonnée se trouve au pied de la montagne.

Starting used as an adjective modifying 'point'.

I am starting to see the benefits of regular exercise.

Je commence à voir les bienfaits de l'exercice régulier.

Starting + infinitive (to see).

Starting from scratch was the only way to fix the problem.

Repartir de zéro était la seule façon de régler le problème.

Gerund phrase 'Starting from scratch' as the subject.

Starting with a small loan, she built a successful company.

En commençant par un petit prêt, elle a bâti une entreprise prospère.

Participle clause at the beginning of the sentence.

The starting torque of the motor is quite high.

Le couple de démarrage du moteur est assez élevé.

Technical use of 'starting' as an adjective.

I'm starting to suspect that he isn't telling the whole truth.

Je commence à soupçonner qu'il ne dit pas toute la vérité.

Starting + infinitive to express a developing thought.

The starting gate opened and the horses surged forward.

La porte de départ s'est ouverte et les chevaux se sont élancés.

Starting used as an adjective in a horse racing context.

Starting a new life in a foreign country is a daunting task.

Commencer une nouvelle vie dans un pays étranger est une tâche ardue.

Gerund phrase as the subject of the sentence.

The starting price for the auction was set at one million dollars.

Le prix de départ de l'enchère a été fixé à un million de dollars.

Starting used as an adjective in a financial context.

We are starting to see a shift in consumer behavior.

Nous commençons à voir un changement dans le comportement des consommateurs.

Starting + infinitive in a professional context.

Starting from the premise that all men are equal, the document outlines basic rights.

Partant du principe que tous les hommes sont égaux, le document énonce les droits fondamentaux.

Participle clause used to introduce a logical premise.

Starting, as it does, with a provocative statement, the essay immediately engages the reader.

Commençant, comme elle le fait, par une déclaration provocatrice, la dissertation captive immédiatement le lecteur.

Complex participle clause with an embedded parenthetical.

The starting capital for the venture was raised through several rounds of private investment.

Le capital de départ de l'entreprise a été réuni grâce à plusieurs cycles d'investissement privé.

Precise use of 'starting capital' in a business context.

I am starting to appreciate the subtle nuances of her performance.

Je commence à apprécier les nuances subtiles de sa performance.

Starting + infinitive to describe refined perception.

Starting from a position of weakness, the team managed to secure a victory.

Partant d'une position de faiblesse, l'équipe a réussi à remporter la victoire.

Participle clause describing an initial state.

The starting pistol's crack echoed through the silent stadium.

Le claquement du pistolet de départ a résonné dans le stade silencieux.

Starting used as an adjective in a descriptive sentence.

Starting a fire in such damp conditions proved to be nearly impossible.

Allumer un feu dans des conditions aussi humides s'est avéré presque impossible.

Gerund phrase as the subject with a complex predicate.

We are starting to explore the implications of this new technology.

Nous commençons à explorer les implications de cette nouvelle technologie.

Starting + infinitive in an academic or scientific context.

Starting from the bottom and working your way up is a classic narrative arc.

Partir du bas et gravir les échelons est un arc narratif classique.

Gerund phrase describing a common life path.

Starting with the assumption of good faith, the negotiations proceeded smoothly.

En partant du postulat de la bonne foi, les négociations se sont déroulées sans heurts.

Sophisticated participle clause in a formal context.

The starting point for any philosophical inquiry must be a questioning of one's own biases.

Le point de départ de toute enquête philosophique doit être une remise en question de ses propres préjugés.

Abstract use of 'starting point' in an academic context.

Starting, then, with the first movement, we see how the composer establishes the main theme.

En commençant donc par le premier mouvement, nous voyons comment le compositeur établit le thème principal.

Participle clause with a transitional adverb ('then').

The starting lineup's performance was lackluster, necessitating several early substitutions.

La performance de l'équipe de départ a été médiocre, ce qui a nécessité plusieurs remplacements précoces.

Possessive form of a compound noun phrase ('starting lineup's').

Starting a new chapter in life often involves a period of profound uncertainty.

Commencer un nouveau chapitre de sa vie implique souvent une période de profonde incertitude.

Metaphorical use of 'starting a new chapter' as a gerund phrase.

The starting price of the property was far beyond what most people could afford.

Le prix de départ de la propriété était bien au-delà de ce que la plupart des gens pouvaient se permettre.

Starting used as an adjective in a high-level economic context.

Starting from the premise of universal human rights, the treaty seeks to protect the vulnerable.

Partant du principe des droits de l'homme universels, le traité vise à protéger les vulnérables.

Formal participle clause in a legal/political context.

I am starting to perceive a pattern in these seemingly random events.

Je commence à percevoir un schéma dans ces événements apparemment aléatoires.

Starting + infinitive to describe a complex mental process.

Common Collocations

starting point

starting salary

starting lineup

starting position

starting price

starting capital

starting date

starting gun

starting block

starting out

Common Phrases

starting from scratch

— Beginning something again from the very beginning without using anything that existed before.

After the fire, they had to build their house starting from scratch.

starting a family

— The act of having children or beginning a life together as a domestic unit.

They are thinking about starting a family next year.

starting to get

— Beginning to experience a particular feeling or state.

I'm starting to get tired of this constant rain.

starting a fire

— The act of igniting something, either literally or metaphorically.

He had trouble starting a fire with the damp wood.

starting a conversation

— Beginning to talk to someone, often a stranger.

Starting a conversation at a party can be difficult for shy people.

starting a fight

— Beginning a physical or verbal conflict.

He was accused of starting a fight in the bar.

starting a new chapter

— Beginning a new and different period in one's life.

Retirement is like starting a new chapter in your life.

starting small

— Beginning a project or business with limited resources or on a small scale.

Starting small is often better than taking a huge risk at the beginning.

starting over

— Beginning again after a failure or a major change.

Sometimes starting over is the best thing you can do.

starting today

— Beginning from the current day onwards.

Starting today, I am going to eat more vegetables.

Often Confused With

starting vs staring

Staring means looking fixedly with eyes wide open. It lacks the 't' sound of starting.

starting vs beginning

Beginning is often more formal or used for abstract starts, while starting is more common for physical or mechanical starts.

starting vs start-up

A start-up is a noun referring to a new company, while starting is an action or adjective.

Idioms & Expressions

"a good starting point"

— A useful place or idea to begin a process or discussion.

This draft is a good starting point for our final report.

neutral

"starting from the bottom"

— Beginning a career or life in a very low or poor position and working hard to succeed.

He is proud of starting from the bottom and becoming the CEO.

neutral

"starting on the right foot"

— Beginning something in a positive or successful way.

We want to make sure we're starting on the right foot with our new clients.

informal

"starting to see the light"

— Beginning to understand something that was previously confusing.

After hours of studying, I'm finally starting to see the light.

informal

"starting a clean slate"

— Beginning again without any of the problems or mistakes of the past.

Moving to a new city allowed him to start with a clean slate.

neutral

"starting to feel the heat"

— Beginning to feel pressure or stress, often from a difficult situation or authority.

The suspect is starting to feel the heat from the police investigation.

informal

"starting to get the hang of it"

— Beginning to learn how to do something correctly or easily.

I'm finally starting to get the hang of this new software.

informal

"starting to wear thin"

— Beginning to become annoying or less effective because it has been used too much.

His excuses are starting to wear thin with the boss.

informal

"starting to pick up"

— Beginning to improve or increase in speed or activity.

Business is finally starting to pick up after the slow winter months.

neutral

"starting to take shape"

— Beginning to develop into a clear or definite form.

Our plans for the summer are finally starting to take shape.

neutral

Easily Confused

starting vs staring

Similar spelling and sound.

Starting involves beginning an action; staring involves looking intensely. 'Starting' has a 't' sound; 'staring' does not.

He was starting his car while she was staring at the sunset.

starting vs beginning

They are synonyms.

Starting is more informal and mechanical. Beginning is more formal and abstract. You 'start' a car, but you 'begin' a new era.

The beginning of the book was better than the starting of the engine.

starting vs commencing

They are synonyms.

Commencing is very formal and often used in official contexts. Starting is neutral and used in everyday life.

The meeting is starting, but the ceremony is commencing.

starting vs initiating

They are synonyms.

Initiating implies a more deliberate, technical, or complex process. Starting is more general.

We are starting the project by initiating the first phase of research.

starting vs launching

They are synonyms.

Launching implies a more energetic or public start, often for products or campaigns. Starting is more basic.

They are starting a business and launching their first product today.

Sentence Patterns

I am starting [noun].

I am starting my book.

It is starting to [verb].

It is starting to rain.

Starting [noun/gerund] is [adjective].

Starting a business is hard.

Starting from [time/place], [clause].

Starting from next month, we will work from home.

Starting with [noun], [main clause].

Starting with a small budget, they built a huge company.

Starting, as [pronoun] does, [clause].

Starting, as it does, with a bang, the movie is very exciting.

The starting [noun] is [adjective].

The starting salary is good.

I am starting to [verb] that [clause].

I am starting to think that he is right.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very high; 'starting' is among the top 2,000 most common words in English.

Common Mistakes

I starting my work. → I am starting my work.
You must use an auxiliary verb (am/is/are) with the present participle 'starting' to form the continuous tense.
The movie is starting at 8 PM. → The movie starts at 8 PM.
For scheduled future events, the simple present ('starts') is usually preferred over the present continuous ('is starting').
I am staring a new job. → I am starting a new job.
The word 'staring' means looking intensely. You must include the 't' to mean 'starting' (beginning).
I am starting learning English. → I am starting to learn English.
While 'starting learning' is grammatically possible, 'starting to learn' is much more common and sounds more natural.
Starting Monday, I have been sick. → Since Monday, I have been sick.
'Starting' is used for the future or the point of beginning; 'since' is used to describe a state that began in the past and continues now.

Tips

Avoid Double -ing

To make your English sound more natural, use 'starting to [verb]' instead of 'starting [verb]-ing.' For example, say 'I'm starting to learn' instead of 'I'm starting learning.'

Use Collocations

Learn 'starting' with its common partners like 'starting point,' 'starting salary,' and 'starting date.' This will help you use the word more fluently in professional and personal contexts.

Don't Forget the 'T'

Always double-check your spelling to ensure you haven't written 'staring' when you mean 'starting.' The 't' is essential for the meaning of the word.

American Flap T

If you are learning American English, practice pronouncing the 't' in 'starting' as a quick 'd' sound. This will make your speech sound more fluid and natural.

Choose the Right Register

Use 'starting' for everyday tasks and 'commencing' for formal ceremonies or legal documents. This shows that you understand the social context of the language.

Participle Clauses

Use 'starting' at the beginning of a sentence to provide background information, such as 'Starting with a small idea, she created a global brand.' This adds variety to your sentence structures.

Listen for Auxiliary Verbs

When you hear 'starting,' listen for 'am,' 'is,' or 'are' to confirm if it's being used as a verb. This will help you understand the grammar of the sentence more quickly.

Starting Capital

In business contexts, use the term 'starting capital' to refer to the money needed to begin a new venture. This is a standard professional term.

Starting Lineup

If you are a sports fan, use 'starting lineup' to talk about the players who begin the game. This is a very common term in sports commentary.

Starting Over

Use the phrase 'starting over' when talking about making a fresh start after a difficult period. It is a powerful and common expression in English.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a STAR at the START of a race. The STAR is STARTING to shine.

Visual Association

Imagine a runner's feet in the starting blocks, ready to push off as soon as the gun fires.

Word Web

Begin Commence Launch Initiate Origin First New Action

Challenge

Try to use 'starting' in three different ways (verb, noun, adjective) in a single paragraph about your morning routine.

Word Origin

The word 'starting' comes from the verb 'start,' which originates from the Middle English word 'sterten,' meaning to leap, jump, or move suddenly. It is related to the Old English 'styrtan' and the Old High German 'sturzen,' meaning to hurl or fall. The sense of beginning an action developed from the idea of a sudden movement or 'leaping' into activity.

Original meaning: To leap, jump, or move suddenly and unexpectedly.

Germanic

Cultural Context

There are no major sensitivities, but be aware that 'starting a fight' or 'starting trouble' are negative collocations.

The concept of 'starting over' is a common theme in American and British literature and film, representing the possibility of redemption and change.

The song 'Starting Over' by John Lennon. The phrase 'A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step' (often translated using 'starting'). The 'Starting Lineup' brand of sports action figures.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Work and Career

starting salary
starting a new job
starting a project
starting out in the industry

Sports and Games

starting lineup
starting line
starting gun
starting blocks

Daily Life

starting the day
starting a conversation
starting to rain
starting the car

Technology

starting the computer
starting an app
starting up the server
starting a download

Finance

starting price
starting capital
starting an account
starting an investment

Conversation Starters

"Are you starting any new projects at work these days?"

"When are you starting your vacation this summer?"

"I'm starting to learn a new language; do you have any tips?"

"What was your starting salary at your first job?"

"Are you starting to feel the effects of the cold weather?"

Journal Prompts

What is one thing you are starting to change about your daily routine?

Describe the feeling of starting a new chapter in your life.

If you were starting a business today, what would it be and why?

Reflect on a time when starting something was much harder than you expected.

What are you starting to realize about yourself as you get older?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Both are grammatically correct, but 'starting to rain' is much more common and sounds more natural to native speakers. Using two '-ing' words in a row ('starting raining') can sound repetitive and awkward.

Yes, 'starting' can be a gerund, which is a verb form that acts as a noun. For example, in the sentence 'Starting a new job is stressful,' the word 'starting' is the subject of the sentence and functions as a noun.

A starting salary is the amount of money an employee is paid when they first begin a new job. It is the initial pay rate before any raises or bonuses are added.

The main difference is the letter 't' and the meaning. 'Starting' means beginning something, while 'staring' means looking at something for a long time without moving your eyes. They sound different because of the 't' sound in 'starting'.

You can use the present continuous form 'starting' to talk about a planned future event. For example, 'I am starting my course next month.' This shows that the start is already scheduled or decided.

It means to begin something from the very beginning, without using any previous work or materials. For example, 'The old plan didn't work, so we are starting from scratch.'

It is a neutral word that can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in very formal situations, words like 'commencing' or 'initiating' might be preferred.

No, you must use an auxiliary verb like 'am,' 'is,' or 'are' before 'starting' when using it as a verb. The correct way to say it is 'I am starting.'

In sports, the starting lineup is the group of players who begin the game on the field or court. These are usually the team's best or most important players.

It is a phrasal verb that means beginning a new stage in life, especially a career. For example, 'She is just starting out as a lawyer.'