Definitions

commence

[kuh-mens] / kəˈmɛns /

VERB

start action

Synonyms

STRONGEST

begin inaugurate initiate launch take up

STRONG

arise open originate

WEAK

come into being come into existence embark on enter upon get cracking get going get one's feet wet get show on road hit the ground running jump into kick off lead off start the ball rolling tear into

Antonyms

STRONGEST

close complete conclude end finish stop

WEAK

cease

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.

If all goes well, orders are likely to commence next year.

From Barron's • Jun. 4, 2026

Complications commence when a space research vessel smashes into Prodigy Corp.-controlled Bangkok.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 2, 2026

"His condition continues to deteriorate and will need more fully to be reviewed before any trial may commence," argued the defence.

From Barron's • May 27, 2026

After several delays, his trial is due to commence in August.

From BBC • Apr. 29, 2026

“Djo!” yells Lally, and all the boys commence their chant: “D-jo! D-jo!”

From "Taste of Salt: A Story of Modern Haiti" by Frances Temple

Vocabulary lists containing commence

Bud, Not Buddy

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Essential English Vocabulary, List 1

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List 8

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