What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
embark
Example
We will embark on our trip to Europe next week. [embark: verb]
Example
The company decided to embark on a new marketing campaign. [embark: verb]
Example
After finishing college, she embarked on a new career path. [embarked: past tense]
commence
Example
The graduation ceremony will commence at 10 am. [commence: verb]
Example
Let's commence the meeting with a brief introduction. [commence: verb]
Example
The construction work will commence next month. [commence: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Commence is more commonly used than embark in everyday language. However, both words are appropriate for formal or professional contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between embark and commence?
Both embark and commence are formal words that are appropriate for professional or academic contexts. However, commence is more neutral and less likely to convey a sense of excitement or adventure.
