〜始める

To start doing something; the beginning of an action.

1. Meaning

「〜始める」 is used to express the start of an action from a certain point in time. It typically describes the initiation of a continuous or natural action.

2. Overview

「〜始める」 is used to describe the beginning of an action or behavior, emphasizing when something starts to happen. It’s often used to describe how actions naturally unfold from a certain moment.

3. Structure

4. Usage Explanation

• Connection: This structure follows the stem form of a verb and is used to indicate the start of a new action or behavior.

• Meaning: It can be generally translated as "to start doing something."

5. Example Sentences

1. 彼は日本語を勉強し始めた。
   He started studying Japanese.

2. 桜が咲き始めました。
   The cherry blossoms have started blooming.

3. 彼女は笑い始めた。
   She started laughing.

4. 雨が降り始めた。
   It started raining.

5. 仕事をし始めるのはいつも朝8時です。
   I start working at 8 a.m. every day.

6. Key Points to Note

• Context: This structure is commonly used to describe the beginning of a natural or continuous action, without carrying a strong command or intentional nuance.

• Tone: The tone is typically neutral, used to state when an event begins.

7. Similar Grammar

• 〜出す: Used to express the sudden or unexpected start of an action, often with an element of surprise.
  • Example: 彼は急に泣き出した。 (He suddenly started crying.)

8. Alternative Grammar

• 〜し始める: A common alternative form in spoken language, with the same usage as 「〜始める」.

9. Summary

「〜始める」 is a structure used to describe the beginning of an action, emphasizing when something new starts happening. It is commonly used in everyday conversation to describe naturally occurring events.