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Synonyms

start something

Idioms  
  1. Cause trouble, especially a quarrel or fight, as in Stop bringing that up—do you want to start something? [Colloquial; early 1900s]


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.

He completed seven innings for the second consecutive start, something he did not accomplish until September last season.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 22, 2026

"People don't dare to start something because it's expensive, and a lot of banks are reluctant to loan money to set up a proper business," he said.

From Barron's • Mar. 19, 2026

Audi unveiled a slogan for their new project: "To start something, stop at nothing."

From BBC • Jan. 20, 2026

He'll start something and then he'll be like, "Oh, I wish you had been a part of it."

From Salon • Oct. 31, 2024

She’s taciturn, but so am I. Is she waiting for me to start something, reveal myself, or is she a believer, engrossed in inner meditation?

From "The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood

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