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]

Originally Posted by Dr. Jamshid Ibrahim

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]

Originally Posted by Dr. Jamshid Ibrahim

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

You ask good questions.


__________

Originally Posted by Dr. Jamshid Ibrahim

Btw I couldn't PM you.

I'm on vacation.