When narrating a story, event, or experience, we tend to say, “It all started.” Although this works well in presenting a starting point, employing other phrases can enhance your narrative and make it more dynamic. Here are ten alternatives to “It all started,” with explanations and examples for each.
Why Use Alternatives?
Whereas “It all started” is a familiar line, it isn’t always optimal. First off, the language can sound worn out or a bit too blunt, particularly in creating engaging narratives.
Employing alternatives enables you to express the same message with a sense that’s new, understandable, and suitable for your audience. To boot, changing up your lingo makes your communication lively and dynamic.
1. The Journey Began When…
This phrase works well for storytelling, emphasizing the beginning of an adventure or process.
Example: The journey began when we first stepped foot in the bustling streets of Paris, ready to explore.
2. It All Kicked Off With…
A more energetic way to describe how something began, commonly used in casual conversations or exciting events.
Example: It all kicked off with a simple idea scribbled on a napkin, which later became a successful business.
3. Everything Took Shape When…
This phrase highlights the moment when things started coming together, ideal for describing projects or life-changing events.
Example: Everything took shape when we realized our true passion lay in helping others.
4. The First Step Was Taken When…
This alternative emphasizes the importance of the first action in a process.
Example: The first step was taken when she decided to leave her corporate job and pursue photography full-time.
5. From That Moment On…
This phrase is effective for dramatic storytelling, indicating a pivotal moment that changed everything.
Example: From that moment on, we knew our lives would never be the same.
6. It Stemmed From…
This is a great way to show the origin of an idea, belief, or movement.
Example: It stemmed from a childhood dream of making the world a better place through sustainable fashion.
7. The Foundation Was Laid When…
A structured way to introduce the beginnings of a project, business, or movement.
Example: The foundation was laid when we secured our first investor and launched our prototype.
8. It Was Set in Motion When…
This phrase conveys action, making it perfect for stories about decisions that led to big changes.
Example: It was set in motion when they decided to move to a new city for better opportunities.
9. Things Started to Unfold When…
A subtle way to describe the start of a process that gradually developed over time.
Example: Things started to unfold when we received our first big order from an international client.
10. The Spark Was Ignited When…
This phrase adds a sense of excitement and inspiration, often used in creative or innovative contexts.
Example: The spark was ignited when he attended a coding bootcamp and fell in love with programming.
Final Thoughts
Language is a potent instrument, and what we say can be the difference in whether we get our message across. Whether you want to put some flair into it, create more interesting storytelling, or just steer clear of clichés.
These ten alternatives to “It all started” provide a lot of choice. The next time you’re struggling for words, use one of these sentiments—it could be the making of your argument.
