launch
B1Formal, Informal, Technical
Definition
Meaning
To set (something, especially a ship, vehicle, or new product) in motion for the first time; to begin.
To start an activity, process, or enterprise; to introduce something new to the public or market; to propel or send forth.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Primarily denotes forceful or energetic initiation. For a ship, implies transition from construction/dry land to water. For products/events, implies a planned, public introduction. Verb sense is primary; noun use (e.g., 'the launch') is common.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No major lexical differences. Spelling of related words may vary (e.g., launch programme/launch program).
Connotations
Identical in core meaning. Slight tendency in UK English to use 'launch' for ceremonial ship naming events.
Frequency
Equally frequent in both varieties across business, tech, and general contexts.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
launch [object]launch [object] [prepositional phrase]launch [object] into [something]launch [oneself] at/against [something]Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “launch into (a speech/tirade)”
- “launch out (into something new)”
- “launch pad (for success)”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
The planned public introduction of a new product, service, or company to the market.
Academic
Used metaphorically (e.g., 'launch a new theory') or in scientific contexts (e.g., 'launch a satellite').
Everyday
Starting an activity or project; also, putting a boat into the water.
Technical
Propelling a spacecraft, missile, or rocket from the ground.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- They will launch the new model at the motor show.
- She launched herself into the fundraising effort with great enthusiasm.
- The lifeboat was launched in rough seas.
American English
- The company launched its streaming service last fall.
- He launched into a detailed explanation without prompting.
- NASA launched the probe from Cape Canaveral.
adverb
British English
- (Rare. Typically not used as an adverb.)
American English
- (Rare. Typically not used as an adverb.)
adjective
British English
- The launch event was a huge success.
- We need the launch date confirmed.
American English
- The launch party is tomorrow night.
- Check the launch checklist before proceeding.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The shop will launch a new brand of shoes next week.
- They launched the small boat into the lake.
- The environmental group launched a campaign to clean the river.
- The rocket launch was delayed due to weather.
- Critics launched a scathing attack on the government's new policy.
- After years of development, the startup finally launched its flagship app.
- The prosecutor launched a preliminary inquiry into the alleged misconduct.
- The new initiative is seen as a launch pad for innovative green technologies.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a LUNCH that you 'launch' into your mouth to start eating vigorously. Both involve a forceful beginning.
Conceptual Metaphor
BEGINNING IS LAUNCHING (e.g., 'launch a career'), INTRODUCTION IS A JOURNEY STARTING (e.g., 'launch into the market').
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with 'ланч' (lunch/meal).
- Avoid using 'launch' for simple, unceremonious starts; use 'start' or 'begin'.
- Not a direct equivalent of 'запускать' for software processes where 'run' or 'start' is more common.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'launch' instead of 'lunch' (spelling error).
- Incorrect preposition: 'launch on' instead of 'launch into' (e.g., a speech).
- Using it for ending a project ('We launched the project yesterday' means started, not finished).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the use of 'launch' LEAST appropriate?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. While used for rockets and ships, it's very common for any new product, service, website, or even an idea or campaign, regardless of scale.
'Launch' emphasizes the public introduction and marketing event. 'Release' focuses on making the product available to users (e.g., releasing a version update). A product launch includes the release.
Yes, frequently. E.g., 'The product launch went smoothly,' or 'The rocket's launch was successful.' It refers to the event or act of launching.
It means to start something suddenly and energetically, often speaking at length or criticizing. E.g., 'He launched into a long story about his travels.'