Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to express the Spanish verb “empezar,” meaning “to start.” In this article, we will explore both formal and informal ways to use this verb, providing you with helpful tips and numerous examples along the way. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced Spanish learner, this guide will assist you in mastering the various nuances of expressing “empezar.”
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways to Say “Empezar”
When it comes to formal situations, it’s important to use respectful language. Here are some formal expressions for “empezar”:
1.1 “Empezar”
The most straightforward and common way to say “empezar” formally is by using the verb itself. For instance:
La reunión empezará a las 10 de la mañana. (The meeting will start at 10 in the morning.)
Note: It’s essential to conjugate the verb “empezar” according to the subject of the sentence.
1.2 “Comenzar”
An alternative formal synonym for “empezar” is “comenzar.” It is frequently used in more professional or academic settings. For example:
El curso de matemáticas comenzará la próxima semana. (The math course will start next week.)
2. Informal Ways to Say “Empezar”
When speaking in a casual or informal setting, you have more flexibility in how you express “empezar.” Here are a few informal alternatives:
2.1 “Empezar”
Just like in formal situations, you can use the verb “empezar” casually. Here’s an example:
Empezamos a ver la serie nueva anoche. (We started watching the new series last night.)
2.2 “Arrancar”
In some Latin American countries, “arrancar” is a popular informal synonym for “empezar.” It is commonly used in everyday conversations. For instance:
Voy a arrancar mi día con una taza de café fuerte. (I’m going to start my day with a strong cup of coffee.)
3. Tips for Using “Empezar”
Now that we’ve covered different ways to express “empezar,” let’s dive into some useful tips:
3.1 Conjugation
Remember to conjugate the verb “empezar” correctly. Here’s an overview of its conjugation in the present tense:
- Yo empiezo (I start)
- Tú empiezas (You start)
- Él/Ella/Usted empieza (He/She/You start)
- Nosotros/Nosotras empezamos (We start)
- Vosotros/Vosotras empezáis (You all start)
- Ellos/Ellas/Ustedes empiezan (They/You all start)
3.2 Contextual Usage
Consider the context in which you’re using “empezar.” It can be followed by various phrases, such as a time, a specific action, or an infinitive verb. For example:
Empezaremos la celebración a las 6 de la tarde. (We will start the celebration at 6 in the evening.)
Empezó a llover de repente. (It started raining suddenly.)
Quiero empezar a aprender italiano. (I want to start learning Italian.)
3.3 Idiomatic Expressions
Broaden your vocabulary by familiarizing yourself with idiomatic expressions that use “empezar.” Here’s an example:
Querer es empezar. (To want is to begin.)
4. Examples of “Empezar” in Sentences
To illustrate further, here are more examples of “empezar” being used in sentences:
- Empezaron la película sin mí. (They started the movie without me.)
- Empiezo un nuevo trabajo la próxima semana. (I’m starting a new job next week.)
- Quiero empezar a leer más libros. (I want to start reading more books.)
- ¿A qué hora empieza el concierto? (What time does the concert start?)
- Vamos a empezar el proyecto desde cero. (We’re going to start the project from scratch.)
With this guide, you are now equipped with the knowledge to confidently express “empezar” in formal and informal situations. Remember the tips, practice the conjugation, and before you know it, you’ll be using this verb seamlessly. ¡Comienza ya! (Start now!)
