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Wordabulary

commence

Pronunciation
Verb B1 Intermediate

Quick answer

To begin.

"The ceremony will commence promptly at noon."

Synonyms and antonyms

Synonyms

Antonyms

Usage notes

"Commence" sounds more formal than "start" and appears often in official announcements and legal writing.

Test yourself

Which word fits the gap? "The ceremony will _____ promptly at noon."

Answer: commence

In your own words, what does "commence" mean?

To begin.

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