Word verb
begin
v.
US /bɪˈɡɪn/ UK /bɪɡˈɪn/ be·gin UK spelling begins
Irregular verb
infinitive begin
Definition
- 01 A2 Elementary
to happen or exist from a certain point in time or at a specific place.
to have a starting point in time, space, or existence; to originate.
Simple“The concert will begin at exactly eight o'clock tonight.”
In context“The Nile begins in the mountains of Africa and flows north toward the Mediterranean Sea.”
UsageOften used intransitively when describing the origin of stories, rivers, or historical periods.
- 02 A1 Beginner
to have a specific letter, word, or part at the very start.
to have something as its first or initial part.
Simple“Many English sentences begin with the word 'The'.”
In context“Each chapter in the textbook begins with a brief summary of the key learning objectives to be covered.”
Synonymsstart withAntonymsend with
Usage begin a new · begin discussion · cycle begin
This entry
Level A1 · Beginner
Frequency Very common
Updated