Start (by) asking

[Dr. Jamshid Ibrahim]

I mean you can start doing sth or start by doing sth depending upon the meaning and emphasis. Start by doing sth suggests: you want to begin with sth ie you make a choice whereas start doing sth you simply begin.
Ideas are welcome
Jamshid

[MrPedantic]

I think I would agree with you, Dr J., e.g.

1. It's about time you did some work round here. You can start by clearing out the cellar.

— implication: "clearing out the cellar" is only the first of several jobs.

2. You can start clearing out the cellar.

— we do not know if other jobs will follow the cellar clearance.

MrP

[Dr. Jamshid Ibrahim]

Thanks MrP just one little preposition and the meaning changes. This is fascinating about English. You have to be prepared for surprises.

[Casiopea]

Thanks MrP just one little preposition and the meaning changes.

True. Here's the other example (with omitted by that changes the writer's intended meaning), "May I start asking: What ... " (See post #3 here).

a) start asking
=> inceptive: (just) about to do something

b) start by asking
=> start with / begin with

__________________
Sorry for the late reply.

[Dr. Jamshid Ibrahim]

Thanks Casiopea. The inceptive idea (very good explanation) is what I thought of in the previous thread. You really never stop learning. This is English looks easy but on second thoughts you find it full of pitfalls. Btw I couldn't PM you.

[Casiopea]

This is English looks easy but on second thoughts you find it full of pitfalls.

You ask good questions.


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Btw I couldn't PM you.

I'm on vacation.