〜始める

〜始める is a verb form expressing begin to ~. Understanding this conjugation pattern is essential for expanding what you can express in Japanese. Verb forms are the backbone of Japanese grammar — each form unlocks new ways to describe actions, states, and intentions.

This is an upper-intermediate pattern common in natural conversation and media like news, novels, and dramas.

When to Use#

• When an action starts to happen
• When expressing the beginning of a new activity

When NOT to Use#

• When the meaning is closer to "in the middle of ~" — use 〜最中 instead

Example Sentences#

• 桜が咲き始めましたね。 — The cherry blossoms are starting to bloom, aren't they?

Practice#

Try reading these sentences aloud, then check the translation and vocabulary:

Common Mistakes#

1. Confusing 〜始める with 〜最中 — While both are related, 〜始める expresses "begin to ~" whereas 〜最中 expresses "in the middle of ~." Pay attention to the specific nuance each pattern conveys.
2. Wrong verb group conjugation — Group 1 and Group 2 verbs conjugate differently. Common pitfall: treating Group 1 verbs ending in る (like 帰る) as Group 2 verbs.

Related Patterns#

• 〜最中 (in the middle of ~) — Compare