Understanding “Launched”: Definition, Synonyms, and Usage
launched – Definition and Part of Speech
The word launched primarily functions as a verb, which can denote initiating or beginning something, such as a product, event, or project. It often implies an official or public start that involves significant preparation or promotion. Additionally, launch is its base form (as in “to launch”) and “launching” is its present participle form.
Core Synonyms
Below is a table of key synonyms for “launched,” each with brief definitions, example sentences, and the typical style/register where they might be used:
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Introduced | Initiated or brought something new into use, often focusing on novelty. | “The company introduced its latest smartphone model this summer.” | Formal/Informal, Academic |
| Unveiled | Revealed for the first time in a formal context, often with public attention. | “She unveiled her award-winning sculpture at the gallery opening.” | Formal/Ceremonial |
| Begun | Started or initiated something without emphasis on formality or promotion. | “Classes began at the new campus yesterday.” | General/Informal |
| Commenced | Officially started; often used in formal contexts or written communication. | “The construction project commenced last month.” | Formal/Academic/Business |
| Set forth | Initiated, especially with a sense of purposeful direction; more formal. | “He set forth his proposal for the new initiative during the meeting.” | Formal/Professional |
Usage Notes
-
Introduced: Best used in contexts where emphasizing the novelty or innovation is important, such as product launches, academic publications, or introducing ideas.
-
Unveiled: Ideal for situations that involve a formal presentation or reveal, such as art exhibitions, tech unveilings, or grand openings.
-
Began: A versatile synonym suitable for everyday speech and writing. It’s less formal than “launched” but can apply to any starting activity, from projects to daily routines.
-
Commenced: Common in business and academic settings where there’s an emphasis on official beginnings, like construction projects or research studies.
-
Set forth: Suitable for contexts requiring a sense of purpose and direction, such as strategic plans, policies, or detailed proposals.
Common Pitfalls
One common mistake is using these synonyms interchangeably without considering the context. For example:
-
While “launched” implies some degree of promotion or publicity (such as launching a marketing campaign), “begun” does not carry this connotation and might sound too informal for such contexts.
-
Using “commenced” in casual conversation may seem overly formal, while opting for “introduced” to describe a non-new thing can be misleading.
Final Recap
In summary, “launched,” along with its synonyms like “introduced,” “unveiled,” “begun,” “commenced,” and “set forth,” offers rich nuances that cater to different contexts from casual conversation to formal presentations. Recognizing these subtleties can greatly enhance your communication skills across various fields and situations.
To practice, try incorporating these terms into sentences or conversations relevant to your personal or professional life. This will not only reinforce their meanings but also help you choose the most appropriate synonym for each occasion.