Synonym Chooser

How is the word inaugurate different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of inaugurate are begin, commence, initiate, start, and usher in. While all these words mean "to take the first step in a course, process, or operation," inaugurate suggests a beginning of some formality or notion of significance.

the discovery of penicillin inaugurated a new era in medicine

How does the word begin relate to other synonyms for inaugurate?

Begin, start, and commence are often interchangeable, with begin, opposed to end, being the most general.

begin a trip
began dancing

How is commence related to other words for inaugurate?

Commence can be more formal or bookish than begin or start.

commence firing
commenced a conversation

When is it sensible to use initiate instead of inaugurate?

The words initiate and inaugurate are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, initiate implies taking a first step in a process or series that is to continue.

initiated diplomatic contacts

Where would start be a reasonable alternative to inaugurate?

In some situations, the words start and inaugurate are roughly equivalent. However, start, opposed to stop, applies especially to first actions, steps, or stages.

the work started slowly

How do usher in and inaugurate relate to one another?

Usher in is somewhat less weighty than inaugurate.

ushered in a period of economic decline

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of inaugurate Thousands of Bolsonaro supporters stormed national capital buildings in Brasília days after da Silva was inaugurated, evoking memories of Jan. 6, 2021, in Washington. Al Weaver, The Hill, 10 July 2025 Colorado’s first immigration arrest of the second Trump administration came shortly after the president was inaugurated on Jan. 20. Seth Klamann, Denver Post, 7 July 2025 Christina Berry, 29, of Flint, said Wednesday marked her third protest at the Capitol since Trump was inaugurated on Jan. 20 each one bigger than the last. Ken Palmer, Freep.com, 3 July 2025 King Charles arrived by helicopter to the Palace of the Holyroodhouse for the historic royal ceremony on the forecourt, which always inaugurates Royal Week. Janine Henni, People.com, 1 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for inaugurate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for inaugurate
Verb
  • The plan is the department's effort to establish a clear vision while seeking community input to create a roadmap for the department over the next five years.
    Jade Jackson, IndyStar, 24 July 2025
  • While people had always moved between the U.S.-Mexico border, migration increased exponentially after the U.S. government, facing a labor shortage in World War II, established the Bracero program, which brought millions of Mexican contract workers to the U.S.
    Jimmy Patino, San Diego Union-Tribune, 23 July 2025
Verb
  • Meanwhile, Sharapova is scheduled to be inducted in to the International Tennis Hall of Fame on August, 23, alongside the Bryan Brothers.
    Merlisa Lawrence Corbett, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025
  • Just last year, McCoy was inducted into the Eagles' Hall of Fame.
    Justin Grasso, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 July 2025
Verb
  • Train managers to initiate—not just relay—purpose conversations.
    HEC Paris Insights, Forbes.com, 22 July 2025
  • Some of those people, joined by younger tribal members, later initiated the long process of restoring their lifeblood, the Klamath River and its watershed.
    Debra Utacia Krol, AZCentral.com, 21 July 2025
Verb
  • Trim trees; install storm shutters, accordion shutters, and/or impact glass; seal outside wall openings.
    Gabe Hauari, USA Today, 23 July 2025
  • During the July 25-28 road closure, crews will also install a high-friction surface treatment, which increases pavement friction even when wet weather makes the road slick, Woodrum said.
    Leo Bertucci, Louisville Courier Journal, 23 July 2025
Verb
  • In addition to her music and acting, Mann launched the Tamela Mann Collection in 2019, a fashion line focused on athleisure and workout wear for curvy women.
    Allison DeGrushe Published, EW.com, 15 July 2025
  • Specifically, Roblox has launched a License Manager that allows partners to work with eligible developers.
    Stewart Clarke, Deadline, 15 July 2025
Verb
  • Understand First, Criticize Second When Volkov introduced himself to Dennett and immediately criticized his work, there were no hard feelings between them.
    Theodore McDarrah, Forbes.com, 25 July 2025
  • Matthew Lillard appeared via video to introduce Skeet Ulrich at San Diego Comic-Con 2025.
    Wesley Stenzel, EW.com, 25 July 2025
Verb
  • Scientists at Newcastle University in northern England have now pioneered a new IVF technique that combines a mother’s egg and father’s sperm with a second egg from a donor woman.
    Vanessa Etienne, People.com, 19 July 2025
  • Disneyland pioneered new technologies, such as audio-animatronics and advanced ride systems, that are now commonplace in theme parks.
    Eve Chen, USA Today, 18 July 2025
Verb
  • Complete the Look Banana Republic Factory Linen-Blend Quilted Jumpsuit A set of coveralls like this linen-blend style can create a stylish no-fuss outfit.
    Rylee Johnston, People.com, 27 July 2025
  • Do not follow large vehicles closely - Large vehicles like trucks or buses can create a spray of water that can reduce your visibility.
    KANSAS CITY STAR WEATHER BOT, Kansas City Star, 26 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Inaugurate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/inaugurate. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

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