"start with" vs "start by"

Question

"start with" vs "start by"

Both 'start with' and 'start by' are correct phrases, but they are used in different contexts. 'Start with' is used when listing items or steps in a sequence, while 'start by' is used to introduce the initial action in a process or series of actions.

Last Updated: March 23, 2024

Use 'start with' when listing items or steps in a sequence. It indicates the beginning of a series or sequence.

Examples:

Let's start with the basics.
Start with the first chapter of the book.

Alternatives:

begin with
commence with
initiate with
kick off with
open with

Use 'start by' to introduce the initial action in a process or series of actions. It indicates the first step or action in a sequence.

Examples:

Start by mixing the ingredients.
Let's start by introducing ourselves.

Alternatives:

begin by
commence by
initiate by
kick off by
open by

Answer 1

start with

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

start by

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"start with" vs "start by"

start with

start by

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