initiate

Everyday

1. (formal) To initiate something is to start it or make it begin: initiate a conversation. tree →
2. To initiate someone into a group is to let them join, often with a special ceremony. tree →
3. To initiate someone into something is to teach them the basics of it. tree →
4. (noun) An initiate is a person who has just been allowed to join a group or learn its secrets. tree →

In the lessons

In formal and exam language «initiate» means «start»: «initiate a plan», «initiate contact». In stories and history: initiation ceremonies into clubs, tribes or secret societies. In computers: initiate a download.

Examples

• The head teacher initiated a new reading scheme. tree →
• Who initiated the argument? tree →
• Pupils can initiate a class project. tree →
• The club initiated new members with a funny song. tree →
• Grandpa initiated me into the secrets of fishing. tree →
• The new initiates were nervous at their first meeting. tree →
• Press the button to initiate the countdown. tree →
• Uncle Remus initiates the Little Boy II. tree →

Note

Verb is said in-ISH-ee-ate; noun is said in-ISH-ee-it. Noun for the act: initiation; adjective: initial (first). Formal: in everyday talk say «start» or «begin».