when we started descending vs when we started to descend

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'When we started descending' is more commonly used in informal speech or writing, while 'when we started to descend' is more formal and precise. The choice between them depends on the level of formality you want to convey.

Last updated: March 17, 2024 • 1032 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in informal contexts.

"when we started descending"

This phrase is commonly used in informal speech or writing to indicate the beginning of a descent.

Examples:

When we started descending, I could see the city lights below us.
The plane began descending as we approached the airport.

Show examples from the web [+]

Nov 23, 2010 ... It was when we started descending from there that we made our navigational mistake. The greenbrier was a bit annoying, and then we came ...
May 11, 2015 ... My ears never pop, they haven't for a long time. For example, I went on a plane about two years ago, and when we started descending, the ...
Mar 27, 2005 ... I was fortunately proven wrong when we started descending into the valley. The ground is literally covered with blooms and is an amazing sight ...
Sep 18, 2010 ... When we started descending from the lake, we met several groups of hikers, who we could tell were not used to all the walking and were ...

Alternatives:

when we began descending
when we started going down
when we started dropping
when we started moving downward
when we started to descend

This phrase is correct and more formal or precise in its usage.

"when we started to descend"

This phrase is more commonly used in formal contexts to indicate the beginning of a descent.

Examples:

When we started to descend, the pilot announced our arrival time.
The hikers started to descend the mountain as the sun began to set.

Show examples from the web [+]

When we started to descend and ready to land I did the reverse. Madelyn was back to 3L and a level of 92 once we landed. I did this procedure twice that day.
Aug 31, 2015 ... I was on this coffee induced, sleep deprived, Kenyan high when we started to descend to the gravel airstrip. I'm not kidding—10 feet from the ...
With Manfred i stayed pretty long on the pass. When we started to descend Hans and Adin came an made some steps with their Ice axes, The trail was very step ...
After my big dinner I reclined back and fell asleep on my comfy bed, waking up only when we started to descend into Bangkok. Even though I didn't pay for it, ...

Alternatives:

when we began to descend
when we started descending
when we started going down
when we started dropping
when we started moving downward

How TextRanch works

Fast and reliable proofreading, editing, and language advice tailored to your needs.

1. Choose Your Service

Quick Text Editing

Emails and short texts
Proofreading & editing
Ready in 5-10 minutes

SUBMIT YOUR TEXT NOW

Document Editing

Documents of any type (*.docx)
Advanced & Premium editing
Ready in as little as 4 hours

UPLOAD YOUR DOCUMENT

Ask an Editor

Personalized answers to your language questions
Expert guidance on grammar, style, and usage
Ready in 24 hours

ASK YOUR QUESTION

Upload your document or paste your text directly into our platform. Your text is reviewed and refined by our expert editors (real people, not machines) who understand the nuances of English. Expect corrections, improvements, and insightful suggestions that enhance the clarity, tone, and professionalism of your writing.

3. Receive Your Polished Text

In just a few minutes (or hours for longer documents), you'll receive your corrected text. Review the changes, make any final adjustments, and confidently share your polished English with the world.
You can count on a personalized, friendly service every time you use TextRanch. We're committed to helping you make a great impression with every word you write.

We proofread and edit these types of texts and documents:

Short texts Business Emails Personal Emails Social media posts Resume and Curriculum Vitae Business documents Sales proposal Research and academic papers Thesis Dissertation Essays Articles Blog posts and much more....

Why choose TextRanch?

Complete Privacy

Your texts are safe and secure with us. We never share your information with third parties.

Affordable Pricing

No subscription fees and rates up to 50% cheaper than other online editing services.

100% Satisfaction

We guarantee that you'll be satisfied with the quality of our service or your money back.

Top Customer Service

Our team is here to help you with any questions you may have. Contact us anytime.

Our Customers Love Us!

We have an average rating of 4.79 stars based on 283125 votes, and

4.9 Excellent - Reviews 2.137

"7 years without any disappointment. Always 100% satisfied. You guys are the best in the world at what you do. Thank you so much :)"

Zubair
from Bangladesh

"I wasn't aware of this service, it's fascinating and more reliable than standard IA tools available on the internet"

Arturo
from Mexico

"In a world of text messages and online communication, this is great to have as a live tool. Thank you."

Selena
from USA

"Wow, it's just so excellent. I never would have believed I could have a sure and excellent English companion. Thanks, TextRanch."

Ifiok
from Nigeria

"This is my first time using TextRanch, and I like how the editors take time to correct my text. To everyone who has never used TextRanch before, I highly recommend trying it."

Wilson
from France

"It is an amazing source of feedback because, as a non-native speaker, I really need to have a reliable helper correct my text."

Susan
from Germany

when we started descending vs when we started to descend