initiate
What does "initiate" mean?
To initiate something means to start a process, a project, or an action. Think of it as the spark or the very first step in a sequence, often implying a sense of leadership or formal authority in getting things moving. While "start" or "begin" are common, "initiate" is more deliberate and structured. It is frequently used in professional or technical contexts, such as initiating a business transaction, a legal proceeding, or a complex scientific experiment. It suggests a purposeful beginning rather than an accidental one.
"initiate" in conversation
Work project planning
We need to initiate the new safety protocols by Monday.
We need to initiate the new safety protocols by Monday.
Understood, I'll draft the announcement now.
Understood, I'll draft the announcement now.
Used here to describe the formal commencement of a protocol.
Casual tech support
To initiate the reset, hold the power button for ten seconds.
To initiate the reset, hold the power button for ten seconds.
Got it, it's blinking now.
Got it, it's blinking now.
Shows how 'initiate' is often used for technical sequences.
"initiate" in a sentence
The teacher will initiate the discussion.
The teacher will initiate the discussion.
They decided to initiate a formal investigation into the matter.
They decided to initiate a formal investigation into the matter.
The government aims to initiate structural reforms to boost the economy.
The government aims to initiate structural reforms to boost the economy.
