start on
B1 neutral transitive
In simple words
To begin doing something, or to start telling someone off
Literal meaning: To start working on something — entering contact with a task
Meanings
1 B1 neutral
To begin a specific task or piece of work
"I'm going to start on the laundry as soon as this show is over."
2 B2
idiomatic
informal
To begin criticizing, scolding, or nagging someone
"Please don't start on me about my diet right now."
3 B1 neutral
To begin eating or consuming a dish or course
"Shall we start on the soup while the main course is being prepared?"
Usage notes
When used with a task (start on the dishes, start on chapter 3), it is neutral and common. When used with a person, it carries a negative connotation of criticism or nagging, similar to 'start in on'. More common in British English when referring to criticizing someone.
Commonly used with
dinner homework project report someone task meal
Forms
Base
start on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
starts on
he/she/it
Past simple
started on
yesterday
Past participle
started on
have + pp
-ing form
starting on
continuous
Understand "start on" better
Try:
Real video examples
Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.
Synonyms
Want to master this phrasal verb?
Practice "start on" on Looplines