start

"Start" is a very common and useful English word. It works as both a verb and a noun, and has a handful of closely related but distinct meanings. Here are the most important ones.

When you start something, you make it begin. Think of it as the moment you go from doing nothing to doing something. It is the opposite of 'stop' or 'finish'.

everyday language · Modern, widely used

Let's start the meeting — everyone is here.

When you start a car, an engine, or a machine, you do something (like turn a key or press a button) to make it switch on and begin running.

everyday language · Modern, widely used

She turned the key to start the car.

everyday language · Modern, widely used

The sudden noise made her start and drop her cup.

As a noun, a 'start' is the point where something begins — the very first moment or part of an event, journey, or process.

everyday language · Modern, widely used

The start of the race was delayed by rain.

We had a few problems at the start, but things got better.

From the start, it was clear she was talented.

5nounfigurativean advantage at the beginning

In a competition or in life, a 'start' can mean an early advantage — a head start. If you begin ahead of others, you have a good start.

everyday language / sports · Modern, widely used · figurative

The younger runners were given a start of 10 metres.