In everyday English, the phrase to commence with might sound slightly formal or old-fashioned, but it carries an important and specific meaning. It is often used to describe the beginning of an action, process, or discussion. The expression appears in both written and spoken English, particularly in formal speeches, academic writing, and professional communication. Understanding the meaning of to commence with helps people use it correctly in sentences and recognize how it differs from more casual phrases like to start with or to begin with. It is a phrase that adds precision, clarity, and sometimes elegance to the way we express the idea of beginning something.
The Basic Meaning of To Commence With
The phrase to commence with means to begin with or to start with. It refers to the initial step or first part of an action or event. In most cases, it introduces what happens first in a process or what should be discussed before moving on to other points. The word commence itself comes from Old French comencier, meaning to begin, and Latin cominitiare, which also means to initiate.
For example
- The meeting will commence with a short introduction from the director.
- To commence with, let us review the main goals of this project.
In both examples, to commence with marks the starting point. It signals the first thing that will happen or be discussed, setting the tone for what follows.
Difference Between Commence and Begin
Although commence and begin have similar meanings, there are subtle differences in tone and usage. Commence tends to sound more formal and is often used in official or ceremonial contexts. Begin or start, on the other hand, is more common in everyday speech.
Compare these examples
- Formal The ceremony will commence with the national anthem.
- Informal The event will start with the national anthem.
Both sentences express the same idea, but commence adds a level of formality and formality. Therefore, to commence with is often found in academic writing, business meetings, or formal announcements rather than casual conversation.
Common Uses of To Commence With
The phrase to commence with can be used in various ways depending on the context. It can describe the first step of a sequence, introduce the beginning of a process, or organize speech or writing.
1. In Formal Writing or Speeches
In speeches, essays, or formal letters, to commence with is a polite way to start a point or topic. It helps structure communication clearly and logically. For instance
- To commence with, I would like to express my gratitude to everyone involved in this project.
Here, the phrase serves as a structured introduction, showing the audience that the speaker is beginning the first point before continuing with others.
2. In Instructions or Processes
When giving step-by-step instructions, to commence with is used to introduce the first stage of an activity or operation. It helps organize actions in an orderly manner.
- To commence with, turn off the power supply before opening the machine.
This makes the instruction clear by indicating what should be done first, ensuring safety and precision.
3. In Academic or Research Contexts
In academic writing, the phrase helps to introduce the first section or idea in a logical discussion. It gives structure to essays or reports, especially when outlining arguments or describing methods.
- To commence with, the study will focus on the historical background of the issue.
This shows the starting point of analysis, signaling that more points will follow.
4. In Narration or Storytelling
Writers may use to commence with to begin a story or describe the first event in a sequence. It provides a formal tone and helps set the timeline of the narrative.
- To commence with, the travelers gathered at dawn, ready to begin their long journey.
Here, it creates a sense of structure and anticipation, showing that more events are to come.
Synonyms and Alternatives
While to commence with is accurate and formal, English offers several synonyms that convey similar meanings. Choosing between them depends on the tone, audience, and context. Common alternatives include
- To start withinformal and widely used in conversation.
- To begin withneutral and suitable for both spoken and written English.
- Initiallyformal and concise, often used in academic writing.
- At the outsetelegant and formal, used in reports or speeches.
For example
- Formal At the outset, I must thank our sponsors.
- Neutral To begin with, we need to discuss the budget.
- Informal To start with, let’s check the schedule.
Each expression carries the same meaning as to commence with but suits different communication styles.
The Structure and Grammar of To Commence With
Grammatically, to commence with is an infinitive phrase consisting of the preposition to plus the verb commence and the preposition with. It is often followed by a noun or clause that specifies what action or event is beginning.
Examples
- To commence with the preparations, we need a clear plan.
- To commence with this project, funding must be approved.
Sometimes, the phrase appears at the beginning of a sentence to organize ideas, similar to an introductory phrase. It can also be placed in the middle of a sentence for emphasis or clarity.
Examples of To Commence With in Sentences
Below are several examples showing how the phrase is used in various contexts
- To commence with, we will review the results from last year.
- The festival will commence with a parade through the main street.
- To commence with, it’s important to understand the goals of the experiment.
- The negotiation will commence with an introduction of both parties.
- To commence with, let me summarize the challenges we currently face.
In each case, the phrase marks the start of a sequence or emphasizes what comes first. It brings order and formality to the communication.
To Commence With vs. To Commence
While they look similar, there’s a difference between to commence and to commence with. The phrase to commence is more general and can be used without specifying what comes first, while to commence with introduces the first item or step in a series.
Examples
- The conference will commence at 9 a.m. (general beginning)
- The conference will commence with the keynote speech. (specific starting event)
Therefore, to commence with adds clarity and detail, making it more specific and structured.
Historical and Cultural Background
The use of commence dates back to the 14th century, where it was used in legal and formal English to mark the start of ceremonies, processes, or official acts. It remains common in British and formal American English. For example, universities often say The ceremony will commence at noon, maintaining the traditional tone of respect and gravity. The phrase to commence with developed naturally from this pattern, becoming a refined way to signal the first stage or point in an organized discussion.
Why To Commence With Is Still Relevant
Even though modern English often favors simpler words like start or begin, to commence with continues to appear in professional and academic writing because of its precision and tone. It conveys careful structure and thoughtful organization. In speeches or essays, it signals a clear beginning, which helps the audience or reader follow the flow of ideas.
In business reports, for instance, using to commence with can make writing sound more polished and intentional. It also fits well in introductions or explanations where multiple points are discussed in sequence.
Practical Tips for Using To Commence With
- Use it in formal settings such as meetings, essays, and reports.
- Avoid using it in everyday conversation where start with or begin with feels more natural.
- Place it at the beginning of a sentence to organize ideas clearly.
- Ensure that what follows with refers to the first step or point in a process.
By following these guidelines, the phrase will enhance writing and speech without sounding forced or outdated.
To commence with means to begin with or to start with, and it serves as a formal, structured way to introduce the first point in a process, discussion, or sequence of events. Though it may sound traditional, it remains a valuable expression for professional and academic contexts. Understanding its meaning and proper use allows speakers and writers to communicate with clarity, organization, and sophistication. Whether introducing a presentation, explaining steps in a report, or writing a thoughtful essay, knowing how and when to use to commence with ensures your message begins and continues with confidence and precision.