Synonyms for

Began

Verb / bɪˈgæn / / bi:ˈgæn / Another word for began — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To start doing something or to start happening.

Synonyms & similar words

getdown setout leadoff commence setabout startout start get end begin started commenced initiated launched embarked undertook proceeded

Synonyms by register

Formal

commenced initiated originated instituted

Informal

started got going kicked off got underway

Literary

arose dawned sprang

Antonyms

ended finished concluded stopped ceased completed terminated

Common collocations

  • began to speak
  • began to cry
  • began to run
  • began to sing
  • began to understand
  • began to work
  • began the process

Word family

noun beginning
verb begin
adjective beginning

Usage note

Began is the past tense of 'begin'. It is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts. Avoid using 'began' with 'to' if a more direct verb can be used, e.g., 'He ran' instead of 'He began to run'.

Example sentences

  1. I began to run when I heard the whistle.
  2. She began to cry when she saw the sad movie.
  3. I began to cook dinner at 6 pm.
  4. The show began at 7 pm.
  5. He began his new job yesterday.

Quotes

  • Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world. - Harriet Tubman
  • Every new beginning comes from some other beginning's end. - Seneca
  • The beginning is the most important part of the work. - Plato

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