Begin

Definition

Begin is a verb that means to start or initiate an action, process, or event. It refers to the point at which something starts or comes into existence.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /bɪˈɡɪn/
• Respelling: bih-GIN

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /bɪˈɡɪn/
• Respelling: bih-GIN

Etymology

The word "begin" originates from the Old English "beginnan," meaning "to start, open, or set going." It has roots in Proto-Germanic "*ginnan," which conveys the idea of undertaking or starting an action.

Derivatives

• Beginning (noun)
• Begun (past participle)
• Begins (third-person singular)
• Beginner (noun)
• Rebegin (verb)

Synonyms

• Start
• Commence
• Initiate

Antonyms

• End
• Finish
• Conclude

Usage

The verb "begin" is commonly used to indicate the start of an action or event. For example, "She will begin her new job next week," or "The concert begins at 7 PM."

Related Terms

• Start: The point at which something begins.
• Inception: The beginning or starting point of an institution or activity.
• Initiate: To cause an action or process to start.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To start or initiate something: Refers to the action of starting a process, task, or event.
  • Example: "She decided to begin a new fitness routine."
• To come into existence or action: Describes the initial point of something starting or forming.
  • Example: "The meeting began with an introduction."