start in: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
common in informal speechinformal
Quick answer
What does “start in” mean?
To begin doing something, especially with energy or criticism.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To begin doing something, especially with energy or criticism.
Often used to indicate the initiation of an action, frequently implying a sudden or vigorous start, or to start criticizing or attacking someone.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage is similar in both varieties, but 'start in' is slightly more common in American English.
Connotations
In both, it often carries a connotation of beginning energetically or critically.
Frequency
More frequent in spoken than written English, and in informal contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “start in” in a Sentence
start in on [NP]start in [V-ing]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “start in” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- She started in on her essay as soon as she got home.
- He started in eating the cake without waiting.
American English
- She started in on her homework right away.
- He started in eating the pizza immediately.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rarely used; more formal terms like 'begin' or 'commence' are preferred.
Academic
Not typical; avoided in formal writing.
Everyday
Common in informal speech to indicate starting an activity or criticism.
Technical
Not applicable.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “start in”
- Using 'start in' without 'on' when specifying an object (e.g., incorrect: 'He started in the homework' instead of 'He started in on the homework').
- Overusing in formal contexts where 'begin' is more appropriate.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is informal and more common in spoken English.
Yes, but it is less common and often requires context, e.g., 'He started in immediately.'
'Start in' often implies a more vigorous or abrupt beginning, and is frequently used with 'on' to specify the activity or target.
It is pronounced as /stɑːt ɪn/ in British English and /stɑːrt ɪn/ in American English.
To begin doing something, especially with energy or criticism.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “start in on someone (to begin criticizing someone)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'start in' as diving 'in' to an activity, like jumping into a pool to begin swimming.
Conceptual Metaphor
Beginning is entering a space; starting an activity is like stepping into a new area.
Practice
Quiz
What does 'start in on' typically imply?