Beginning: meaning, definitions and examples

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beginning

[bɪˈɡɪnɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

start

The point in time or space at which something starts.

Synonyms

commencement, onset, start.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
beginning	Use 'beginning' to talk about the initial part of something in a general sense. The beginning of the book was very intriguing. At the beginning of the school year, everything feels new.
start	Use 'start' in casual conversation or everyday situations to denote the beginning of an activity or process. We need to start the meeting right now. She was nervous for her first start as a manager.
commencement	Use 'commencement' mostly in formal contexts, such as ceremonies or the start of significant events. The commencement of the graduation ceremony is at 10 AM. We eagerly awaited the commencement of the event.
onset	Use 'onset' to describe the start of something that is usually negative or of a medical condition. The quick onset of the illness took everyone by surprise. Winter's onset means shorter days and colder nights.

Examples of usage

The beginning of a new era
Let's start at the beginning

^{Context #2 | Noun}

first part

The first part or section of something.

Synonyms

introduction, opening, start.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
beginning	Use this word when talking about the initial part of something, such as an event, story, or period of time. The beginning of the movie was very slow. She felt nervous at the beginning of her new job.
start	Use 'start' when referring to the commencement of any action, process, or journey, often emphasizing the initial moment. He decided to start running every morning. We need a good plan before the start of the project.
opening	Choose 'opening' for talking about the start of something physical or formal, such as a door, a ceremony, or a business. The grand opening of the new store attracted a lot of customers. She stood at the opening of the cave and peered inside.
introduction	This word is best used to describe the part that comes first and provides information, often for the purpose of familiarizing someone with a subject or person. The introduction of the book gave a good overview of what to expect. During the introduction, the speaker explained the goals of the presentation.

Examples of usage

The beginning of a book
She read the beginning and the end of the story

^{Context #3 | Noun}

origin

The origin or source of something.

Synonyms

genesis, origin, source.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
beginning	This word is suitable for general use when talking about the start of something, such as an event, a story, or a process. They were excited for the beginning of the new school year. The beginning of the movie was a bit slow, but it got better.
origin	Often employed in a more scientific or technical context to describe the point where something begins or is derived from. The origin of the species was a groundbreaking work by Charles Darwin. Researchers are studying the origin of the virus.
source	This term is commonly used to describe the starting point or place something comes from, often used in journalism, research, finance, and geography. The river's source is high in the mountains. She always cites her sources in her research papers.
genesis	This word is rarely used in everyday conversation and is best suited for historical, religious, or metaphorical contexts to describe the creation or origin of something. The genesis of the universe is a topic that fascinates many scientists. The book explores the genesis of the civil rights movement.

Examples of usage

The beginning of the universe
They traced the beginning of the problem to a misunderstanding

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'beginning' comes from the Old English 'beginnan', which means to start or commence.
It is made up of 'be-' (a prefix meaning 'about' or 'around') and 'gin' (related to the word 'ginn', meaning mouth or opening).

Literature

Many famous stories start with the phrase 'Once upon a time', marking the beginning of an adventure.
In Shakespeare's plays, the beginnings often set the stage for the themes and conflicts that unfold.

Psychology

Starting something new can create feelings of excitement and anxiety, known as the 'beginning effect' in psychology.
Research suggests that people are often more motivated at the beginning of a task than at the end.

Science

In scientific terms, the 'Big Bang' is considered the beginning of the universe as we know it.
The concept of beginnings can also be found in biological processes, like the beginning of life for a new organism.

Cultural Significance

Many cultures celebrate New Year’s or other festivals as a way to mark new beginnings.
In some philosophies, the concept of renewal or starting afresh is essential to personal growth and self-improvement.

Translations

Translations of the word "beginning" in other languages:

🇵🇹 início

🇮🇳 शुरुआत

🇩🇪 Anfang

🇮🇩 awal

🇺🇦 початок

🇵🇱 początek

🇯🇵 始まり (hajimari)

🇫🇷 début

🇪🇸 comienzo

🇹🇷 başlangıç

🇰🇷 시작 (sijak)

🇸🇦 بداية (bidaya)

🇨🇿 začátek

🇸🇰 začiatok

🇨🇳 开始 (kāishǐ)

🇸🇮 začetek

🇮🇸 byrjun

🇰🇿 бастау

🇬🇪 დასაწყისი (dasats'q'isi)

🇦🇿 başlanğıc

🇲🇽 comienzo

Word Frequency Rank

At #630 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.

...
627 organization
628 front
629 lost
630 beginning
631 rest
632 motion
633 poor
...