From the start or from the beginning?

[greenisgood]

When to use "From the start" versus "from the beginning"?

Is there any difference between these two sentences?

His speech was entertaining from the start.
His speech was entertaining from the beginning.

 

[billmcd]

When to use "From the start" versus "from the beginning"?

Is there any difference between these two sentences?

His speech was entertaining from the start.
His speech was entertaining from the beginning.

I would infer no difference.

 

[greenisgood]

In American usage, what's more popular - start or beginning?

 

[Rover_KE]

Billmcd is American.

He has told you that there is no difference.

They mean the same.

Rover

 

[greenisgood]

Billmcd is American.

He has told you that there is no difference.

They mean the same.

Rover

Rover, my followup question was not about difference, but what's more popular in America.