“Began” is the past tense of the verb “begin,” which means to start or to come into being. Here are some synonyms and their analyses:
1. Commenced
- Meaning: To begin; to start something, often in a more formal or official context. For example, “The ceremony commenced with a traditional dance.”
- Usage difference: “Commenced” has a more formal tone than “began.” It is often used in situations such as academic, legal, or ceremonial settings. For example, a graduation ceremony commences at a specific time, and this word gives a sense of an organized and scheduled start. In contrast, “began” is a more general and commonly used term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts. You can say, “I began reading a book,” which sounds more casual than “The reading of the will commenced in the lawyer's office.”
2. Initiated
- Meaning: To start or set in motion; to cause something to begin. For example, “The government initiated a new policy to boost the economy.”
- Usage difference: “Initiated” emphasizes the role of an agent or a force in starting something. It implies that someone or something is responsible for getting the process started. In comparison to “began,” it has a more active connotation. For example, a person might initiate a conversation, showing that they took the lead in starting it. “Began” can be used more passively, like “The rain began to fall,” where there isn't a clear initiator in the same sense.
3. Launched
- Meaning: To start something in a forceful or enthusiastic way, especially a project, product, or campaign. For example, “The company launched a new advertising campaign.”
- Usage difference: “Launched” often implies a big start, usually with a lot of energy and preparation behind it. In comparison to “began,” it is used for more significant undertakings such as the introduction of a new product or a major project. For example, a spacecraft is launched into space, which involves a complex process and a lot of resources. When you say a project began, it could be a more low - key start, but when you say it was launched, it gives the impression of a more public and impactful beginning.
4. Embarked (on)
- Meaning: To begin a journey, a project, or an activity, often with a sense of commitment or adventure. For example, “They embarked on a long - distance hike through the mountains.”
- Usage difference: “Embarked (on)” has a connotation of starting something that is like a journey or an adventure. In comparison to “began,” it implies a more involved and perhaps more exciting start. For example, you can begin a simple task like cleaning your room, but when you embark on a project, it's usually something more significant and often involves a certain level of risk or discovery. “Embarked” also gives a sense of setting off into something new and unknown.