Definitions

begin

[bih-gin] / bɪˈgɪn /

VERB

start

Synonyms

STRONGEST

commence create do establish found go ahead go into inaugurate initiate introduce launch lead make open prepare produce set up start undertake

STRONG

activate actualize cause drive effect eventuate generate impel induce instigate institute motivate mount occasion originate trigger

WEAK

break ground break the ice bring about bring to pass embark on enter on enter upon get going give birth to give impulse lay foundation for make active plunge into set about set in motion

Antonyms

STRONGEST

cease close conclude destroy end fail finish halt ignore lose neglect ruin stop

STRONG

check discourage dissuade prevent repress

WEAK

complete consummate die

VERB

come into being; become functional

Synonyms

STRONGEST

appear come out commence emerge enter happen occur rise set take off

STRONG

arise bud dawn emanate germinate originate sail spring sprout

WEAK

be born come forth come into existence crop up derive from get going get show on road get under way grow out of issue forth kick off make tick proceed from result from send off stem from

Antonyms

STRONGEST

complete disappear end finish hide leave stop

STRONG

die shrink

WEAK

conclude consummate

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

However, with Iran scheduled to begin play June 15 against New Zealand in Inglewood, the federation said in a statement that it is unable to provide any tickets to its supporters.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 9, 2026

A developing natural weather pattern called El Niño could begin within weeks, according to UN scientists, bringing more extreme weather to many parts of the world.

From BBC • Jun. 9, 2026

The platform will begin with a $35 billion investment, led by Apollo, to facilitate Anthropic’s previously-announced capacity expansion of more than 1 gigawatt of compute infrastructure expected this year.

From Barron's • Jun. 9, 2026

The term “passive income” doesn’t begin to describe the stress and emotional labor of dealing with damage from short-term renters and cleaning/maintenance fees.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 9, 2026

But I’ve already done the hardest part of accepting Theo’s help—I’ve told him the story of why I need help to begin with.

From "The Brightwood Code" by Monica Hesse

begin

Example Sentences

Related Words