What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
started
Example
I started my homework as soon as I got home. [started: past tense]
Example
The meeting started promptly at 9 am. [started: verb]
Example
He started the conversation by asking about my day. [started: verb]
initiated
Example
She initiated the project by presenting her proposal to the team. [initiated: past tense]
Example
The company initiated a new policy to improve employee satisfaction. [initiated: verb]
Example
He initiated the discussion on climate change by sharing his research findings. [initiated: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Started is more commonly used than initiated in everyday language. Started is a more general term that can be used in various contexts, while initiated is more specific and often used in formal or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between started and initiated?
Initiated is more formal than started. While started can be used in both formal and informal contexts, initiated is typically associated with professional or technical settings.