Initiate

v.energetic, capableprofessional

Meaning 1

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.

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.

The definition and the example on this page are written here. The dictionaries above ground which meaning is being described, not the wording.