The idiom "start with" means to begin something by doing or using something else first. It can also mean to have something as a basis or an advantage. It is often used to give instructions, suggestions, or explanations.

In short:

• It implies having something as a starting point or an advantage.

What Does "Start With "Mean?

The idiom "start with" has two primary meanings depending on the situation or context.

• The first meaning is to begin something by doing or using something else first. This can be a verb, a noun, or a phrase that follows "start with." For example, "Start with a warm-up before you exercise."
• The second meaning is to have something as a basis or an advantage. This can be a quality, a skill, a resource, or a condition that follows "start with." For example, "She started with a good education and a lot of ambition."

Where Does "Start With" Come From?

The idiom "start with" is a combination of the words "start" and "with," which has been an idiom since at least the 16th century. It is derived from the verb "start," which comes from the Old English word "styrtan," meaning "to leap up." On the other hand, the word "with" comes from the Old English word "wið," meaning "from. "

10 Examples of "Start With" in Sentences

Here are some examples of how to use this idiom in different sentences:

• To solve the puzzle, you should start with the corner pieces.
• Yaas! Let's start with a small appetizer before our main course.
• Pro tip: If you want to improve your fitness, start with a daily walk.
• In painting, it's best to start with a rough sketch before adding details.
• Start with a warm-up exercise to prevent injuries during your workout.
• It's helpful to start with basic vocabulary when learning a new language.
• You should start with a solid business plan to create a successful business.
• Before we plan the trip, let's start with a list of destinations we want to visit.
• Start with the introduction and then move on to the main points of your presentation.
• To make a cake, you should start with the essential ingredients: flour, sugar, and eggs.

Examples of "Start With" in Pop Culture

Here are some examples of how this phrase has been used in various forms of pop culture:

• Start With Why: A book by Simon Sinek explores how great leaders inspire everyone to take action. The book is based on the author's TED talk, one of the most viewed presentations ever.
• Start With Me: A song by Tim Timmons expresses his desire to be a part of God's kingdom and live out his faith daily. The song is from his album Cast My Cares, released in 2013.

Synonyms: Other/Different Ways to Say "Start With"

Here are some synonyms and alternative ways to say this idiom:

• Begin with
• Commence with
• Initiate with
• Kick off with
• Launch with
• Lead off with
• Open with
• Set off with

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Start With"

Here are some frequently asked questions about this idiom:

• What does "start with" mean?

The idiom "start with" means to begin something by doing or using something else first. It can also mean to have something as a basis or an advantage. It is often used to give instructions, suggestions, or explanations.

• What is the origin of the phrase "start with"?

The idiom "start with" is a combination of the words "start" and "with," which has been an idiom since at least the 16th century. It is derived from the verb "start," which comes from the Old English word "styrtan," meaning "to leap up." On the other hand, the word "with" comes from the Old English word "wið," meaning "from. "

• How do I use "start with" in a sentence?

You can use "start with" to indicate the initial step or component in a series of actions. For example, "Let's start with the basics before we move on to the advanced topics."

• Is "start with" the same as "begin with"?

Yes, "start with" and "begin with" are often used interchangeably, both indicating the initial point of something.

• Can I "start with" a problem-solving approach in a difficult situation?

Yes, you can "start with" identifying the problem and its root causes, which is often a crucial first step in resolving difficult situations.

• What is the opposite of "start with"?

The opposite of "start with" is "end with," which means to conclude or finish with a particular element or action.

• What part of speech is "start with"?

"Start with" is a verb phrase that consists of a verb (start) and a preposition (with). A verb phrase is a group of words that functions as the main element of a sentence or a clause and expresses an action or a state of being.

• What is the difference between "start with" and "start by"?

"Start with" and "start by" are similar expressions that indicate what comes first in a sequence or a process. However, "start by" can imply that there are more steps or stages to follow, while "start with" means only one step or stage.

• How do you use "start with" in an imperative sentence?

You can use "start with" in an imperative sentence to give orders, commands, requests, or advice about what to do first or what to use as a basis for something. For example, "Start with your name and address."

• How do you use "start with" in a conditional sentence?

You can use "start with" in a conditional sentence to express possibilities, hypotheses, or consequences about what would happen if something came first or was the basis of something. For example, "If you start with a positive attitude, you will achieve more."

Final Thoughts About "Start With"

The idiom "start with" is a common and valuable expression with different meanings depending on the context. It can mean to begin something by doing or using something else first or to have something as a basis or an advantage.

Key points to remember about the phrase:

• It can also be used to give instructions, suggestions, or explanations.
• It has some related expressions that can be used interchangeably.
• It has been used in various forms of pop culture, such as books, songs, etc.
• It has synonyms, antonyms, and other idioms that express similar or opposite ideas.