start in
B1 informal intransitive
In simple words
To begin something, usually quickly or without waiting
Literal meaning: To start going in — entering or diving into an activity
Meanings
1 B1 informal
To begin a task or activity, often with energy or immediacy
"We have a lot to do today, so let's just start in."
2 B2
idiomatic
informal
To begin criticizing, scolding, or lecturing someone
"As soon as I walked through the door, my roommate started in about the dirty dishes."
3 B1 informal
To begin eating or consuming something
"Don't wait for me — go ahead and start in on the appetizers."
Usage notes
Common in American English. Often implies starting something with energy or without hesitation. Can also mean to begin criticizing or nagging someone (see sense 2). In this second use, it is close to 'start in on'.
Commonly used with
work meal story lecture complaints task
Forms
Base
start in
I/you/we/they
3rd person
starts in
he/she/it
Past simple
started in
yesterday
Past participle
started in
have + pp
-ing form
starting in
continuous
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Synonyms
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