begin
verb (used without object)
to proceed to perform the first or earliest part of some action; commence; start.
have begun
-
present perfectof begin.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Authorities in the Philippines have begun investigating the claims.
From BBC ● Oct. 29, 2026
Some PBM companies also have begun selling certain drugs known as biosimilars—copycat versions of biologic medicines—under their own private-label brands.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 28, 2026
Memphis has long struggled with high rates of violent crime that have begun to fall only in the last couple of years.
From Salon ● Oct. 28, 2026
More recently, however, researchers have begun recognizing that these mobile genetic elements can also create opportunities for evolutionary change.
From Science Daily ● Oct. 28, 2026
The trustees have begun to solicit donations to help pay expenses, with mixed success.
From "The Unseen Guest" by Maryrose Wood
