What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
launch
Example
The company plans to launch a new line of smartphones next month. [launch: verb]
Example
The launch of the fundraising campaign was a huge success. [launch: noun]
Example
The ship will launch at dawn tomorrow. [launch: verb]
start
Example
Let's start the meeting with a quick introduction. [start: verb]
Example
We're starting our road trip across the country next week. [starting: present participle]
Example
The referee blew the whistle to start the soccer game. [start: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Start is more commonly used than launch in everyday language. Start is a versatile word that can be used in a wide range of contexts, while launch is less common and often reserved for more formal or specialized situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between launch and start?
Launch is generally more formal than start, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, both words can be adjusted to fit the level of formality required for a given situation.