German word

starten

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈʃtaʁtən/

Meaning

  • verbstart

Example

Ich starte jetzt das Projekt.

I'm starting the project now.

Illustration for starten (start)

More examples

Wie kann ich ein Gespräch mit ihm starten?

How can I start a conversation with him?

Core concept

A paused machine, vehicle, or project is set into motion from its starting point.

Common phrases

  • ein Gespräch starten

    start a conversation

  • mit jemandem ein Gespräch starten

    start a conversation with someone

Similar words

anfangen: To start doing something in everyday situations or casual conversation.
losgehen: To mark the beginning of an event or someone's departure.
beginnen: To mark the formal beginning of a ceremony, plan, or undertaking.
losfahren: To drive away or begin a journey in a vehicle.

Definition in German

etwas in Gang setzen oder eine Maschine bzw. ein Fahrzeug in Betrieb nehmen; mit einem Vorgang beginnen.

Word origin

German starten is borrowed from English start and now covers setting something in motion as well as beginning an activity.

Usage tips

  • The verb is regular, and its past participle is gestartet rather than *gestart.

Other meanings

  • start upverb
  • take offverb
  • beginverb

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word