Definition of Beginning
Quick Meaning of Beginning
The first part or moment when something starts to happen or exist.
Detailed Definition of Beginning
The point in time or space where something starts.
How to Pronounce Beginning
Stress pattern: oOo (3-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the second syllable: be-GIN-ning. The 'g' is a soft sound like in 'gem'.
Watch out: Sometimes mispronounced as 'bi-JIN-ing' instead of 'bi-GIN-ning'.
Origin and Etymology of Beginning
From Old English 'beginnan', related to Germanic 'begin'.
How to Use Beginning in a Sentence
Each example shows “beginning” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The beginning of the story was exciting.”
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“She arrived at the beginning of the meeting.”
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“A new beginning awaits after graduation.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Beginning
Common Synonyms for Beginning
Smart Synonyms for Beginning — When to Use Each
- start
- for everyday situations like the start of a
- commencement
- for formal contexts like a ceremony or official
- onset
- for gradual processes like the onset of illness
Antonyms of Beginning
Common Collocations with Beginning
These phrases pair with “beginning” in everyday English:
- in the beginning
- from the beginning
- new beginning
- beginning of the week
- back to the beginning
Common Mistakes When Using Beginning
Even fluent speakers slip up with “beginning”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: She was there since the beginning.
- ✓ Correct: She has been there since the beginning.
- Why: Use present perfect with 'since' to show an action continuing from that time.
- ✗ Wrong: In the beginning of the year.
- ✓ Correct: At the beginning of the year.
- Why: Use 'at' with 'beginning', not 'in' (except in phrases like 'in the beginning there was...')
Other Forms of Beginning
Frequently Asked Questions About Beginning
What is the meaning of "Beginning"?
The first part or moment when something starts to happen or exist.
How do you pronounce "Beginning"?
The IPA is /bɪˈɡɪnɪŋ/. Stress the second syllable: be-GIN-ning. The 'g' is a soft sound like in 'gem'.
What part of speech is "Beginning"?
"Beginning" is a noun at A1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Beginning"?
Common synonyms include start, commencement, inception.
How do you use "Beginning" in a sentence?
For example: "The beginning of the story was exciting."