What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
starting
Example
We are starting the project next week. [starting: present participle]
Example
The car is not starting, we need to check the battery. [starting: gerund]
beginning
Example
In the beginning, the universe was just a hot and dense state. [beginning: noun]
Example
Let's begin with the introduction before moving on to the main topic. [beginning: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Beginning is more commonly used than starting in formal writing and speech. However, starting is more commonly used in everyday language and informal contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between starting and beginning?
Beginning is generally considered more formal than starting. Therefore, beginning is more appropriate to use in formal writing and speech, while starting is more suitable for informal contexts.
