Commence: meaning, definitions and examples
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commence
[ kəˈmens ]
start
To commence means to begin or start something. It is often used in formal or official contexts.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| commence |
This is more formal and often used in official or ceremonial contexts.
|
| begin |
This is used in general situations where you want to mention the start of an action or process in a straightforward and neutral manner.
|
| start |
This is a versatile term, suitable for most informal or conversational contexts to indicate the beginning of something.
|
| initiate |
This usually implies initiating something new or complex, often with a sense of formality or technicality.
|
Examples of usage
- Let's commence the meeting with a brief introduction.
- The ceremony will commence at 9am sharp.
Etymology
The word 'commence' originated from the Latin word 'cominitiare', which means 'to initiate or begin'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century. Over time, 'commence' has become a common term used to indicate the start of an action or event.