C1verbformalworkbusiness
US/kəˈmens/
UK/kəˈmens/
to begin, used in formal writing and official announcements
In context
The ceremony will commence at ten o'clock sharp.
Construction commenced in March and finished in November.
Passengers may commence boarding when the gate agent calls their row.
Words that go with commence
verb + noun
- commence workNew staff commence work on Monday.
- commence operationsThe factory will commence operations next year.
- commence proceedingsThe court will commence proceedings in May.
- commence trainingRecruits commence training in January.
verb + preposition
- commence onClasses commence on September 5.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
I will commence my homework nowCorrect: I will start my homework now