Initiate

To cause a process, action, or useful exchange to begin.

Reach for it when naming deliberate first action that sets something in motion

Any resident may initiate a review by submitting the signed form.

• everyday

  begin

  the subject simply performs the first part

  not when Begin can be intransitive, while initiate usually acts on a process.

• everyday

  start

  plain language is best for the beginning of an action

  not when Start does not imply the deliberate procedural role of initiate.

• professional

  launch

  a public project or product begins with visible momentum

  not when Launch is too grand for opening a conversation or review.

• professional

  trigger

  one event directly sets off another

  not when Trigger can be accidental and often carries a negative association.

• formal

  inaugurate

  a significant institution or period receives a ceremonial beginning

  not when Inaugurate is excessively ceremonial for routine workflow.

To formally admit someone into a group or introduce them to its knowledge.

Reach for it when describing ceremonial membership or a first guided encounter

Senior apprentices initiate each new member into the workshop's safety traditions.

• warm

  introduce

  a gentle first encounter with a subject or circle is intended

  not when Introduce is less formal and need not confer membership.

• professional

  induct

  formal admission to a role or organization is exact

  not when Induct does not include teaching the group's deeper knowledge.

• halt
• conclude
• exclude

• initiate contact

  The clinic will initiate contact only after receiving consent.

• initiate proceedings

  A written complaint may initiate proceedings under the new rule.

• initiate members

  The guild will initiate members in the restored assembly room.