Translation guide
The English verb 'commence' means to begin or start something, often in a formal or official context. In Japanese, the most natural translation depends on the formality and what is starting.
To express that a formal event, ceremony, meeting, or official process begins.
The most direct and common translation for 'commence' in formal contexts. Used for meetings, ceremonies, operations, etc.
会議は午後2時に開始します。
The meeting will commence at 2 PM.
To express that someone begins doing something, often a planned activity.
Means 'to commence' in the sense of embarking on a task or project. Formal and often used in business or legal contexts.
プロジェクトに着手しました。
We have commenced the project.
To express that a legal action, lawsuit, or official procedure begins.
開始する is formal and often used for scheduled events or official processes. 始める is transitive (someone starts something) and more casual. 始まる is intransitive (something starts on its own). Choose based on formality and transitivity.
The ceremony will commence shortly.
Intransitive verb meaning 'to begin'. Used when the subject itself starts. Less formal than 開始する but still acceptable in many contexts.
式は10時に始まります。
The ceremony commences at 10 o'clock.
Transitive verb meaning 'to start something'. Use when someone commences an activity.
彼はスピーチを始めた。
He commenced his speech.
Specifically used for opening a meeting, conference, or formal gathering. More limited than 開始する.
議長が会議を開会した。
The chairperson commenced the meeting.
Construction is scheduled to commence next month.
General verb for starting an action. Less formal than 着手する.
調査を始めましょう。
Let's commence the investigation.
Means 'to get started on' or 'to set about' a task. Implies beginning work in earnest.
彼はすぐに仕事に取り掛かった。
He commenced work immediately.
彼らは訴訟を提起した。
They commenced legal action.
In English, 'commence' is very formal. In Japanese, using 開始する in casual conversation can sound stiff. For everyday 'start', use 始める or 始まる instead.
In English, 'commence' is very formal. In Japanese, using 開始する in casual conversation can sound stiff. For everyday 'start', use 始める or 始まる instead.