Reading Theme:
Start: Definition, Examples, and Usage Guide (2 meaning)
Meaning 1:begin an action (start)
start
/stɑːrt/
v., n.
to begin doing something, like when you press a button to make a machine work.
begin an action
➕
/ˈstɑːrt ən ˈækʃən/
v., n.
To cause something to begin or to undertake an activity for the first time.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Old English 'styrtan' meaning 'to leap up', related to Old High German 'sturzen'.
💡 Mnemonic
Imagine a car engine giving a sharp 'stut' sound as you turn the key—that's the start!
📖 Example
She decided to start learning the piano after watching a beautiful concert.
She made up her mind to begin studying the piano following a lovely performance.
🔗 Collocations
start a project – to initiate a new undertaking
start the engine – to cause a motor to begin running
start a conversation – to begin talking with someone
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
🌱 Derivatives
📖 Cultural Story
The word 'start' has been used since the 14th century for sudden movements. In modern tech culture, it is ubiquitous as the 'Start' button on computers and cars, symbolizing initiation.
Meaning 2:starting point (start)
start
/stɑːrt/
v., n.
the beginning point of something, like the line where a race begins.
starting point
➕
/ˈstɑːrtɪŋ pɔɪnt/
v., n.
The point in time or space at which something begins.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The start of the new school year is always a mix of excitement and nervousness for students.
The beginning of the academic year typically brings both enthusiasm and anxiety among learners.
🔗 Collocations
from the start – from the very beginning
start date – the scheduled day when something begins
starting line – the mark that indicates where a race begins
🔄 Synonyms
beginning (n.) – the first part or earliest stage
outset (n.) – the initial point of something
commencement (n.) – the formal start of an event or process
🚫 Antonyms
end (n.) – the final point of something
finish (n.) – the conclusion or termination
conclusion (n.) – the last part or outcome
Wordbook
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