Which is Correct: ‘Started to Work’ or ‘Started Working’?

In the world of English usage, the phrases ‘started to work’ and ‘started working’ are often considered interchangeable. However, there are subtle differences in their usage and connotations depending on the context. This article will delve into the nuances of these phrases and provide clarity on their correct usage.

Introduction

Both 'started to work' and 'started working' are grammatically correct but can have slight variations in meaning. Understanding the context in which each phrase is used can help in choosing the most appropriate one.

Usage and Meaning of 'Started to Work' and 'Started Working'

1.

Started to Work

‘Started to work’ implies the beginning of the action of working. It emphasizes the decision or intention to begin working, often highlighting the moment of starting. For example:

“I started working on my project at 9 AM.” “I started to work on my P.C. after sleeping for two hours.”

This phrase is often used when you want to draw attention to the moment when you began working.

2.

Started Working

‘Started working’ focuses more on the ongoing nature of the work itself. It indicates that the person began the process of working, often without drawing attention to the exact moment of starting. For example:

“After completion of my graduation, I started working and didn't depend on anyone for financial needs.” “I started working on my thesis in the morning.”

This phrase is often used when the focus is on the work itself rather than the moment of starting.

Common Usage and Contexts

When used in everyday conversation, both phrases can be used interchangeably, but the intended meaning can shift depending on the context or the emphasis you want to convey. For instance, consider the following scenarios:

"I started working" implies a shift from a non-working state (e.g., sleeping, studying, travelling) to a working state. For example:

I started working on my project after sleeping for two hours.

"I started to work" implies a shift from a different activity to work, such as leaving a different job or starting a new job. For example:

I started to work at a new company after completing my studies.

In the sentence 'It started raining at 8 o'clock,' it is implied that it is still raining. However, in 'It started to rain at 8 o'clock and it has only just stopped,' it is clearly stated that the rain is no longer falling.

This distinction is crucial when the context requires you to convey the ongoing nature or the cessation of an action.

Another example is when you're talking about your journey to work. 'Started to work' means you've begun your journey towards the workplace, while 'started working' means you've begun the task of performing your job duties.

'I started to work on my way to the office.' vs. 'I started working when I arrived at the office.'

Conclusion

In conclusion, while 'started working' and 'started to work' are both correct and often used interchangeably, their meanings can differ subtly depending on the context. Understanding these nuances can help in choosing the most appropriate phrase for a given situation, ensuring clarity and effective communication.

Keywords

- started to work - started working - English grammatical differences