Introduction
English grammar often raises questions about proper sentence structure, and one common query is whether you can start a sentence with the word “As.” Some people hesitate, fearing it may sound unprofessional or grammatically incorrect. However, using “As” at the beginning of a sentence is completely acceptable in both formal and informal writing.
This article will explore the various ways you can start a sentence with “As,” its meaning in different contexts, and alternative ways to phrase your sentences to maintain clarity and professionalism.
Can You Start a Sentence With “As”?
Yes! You can absolutely start a sentence with “As” when it serves a logical purpose in the sentence. The key is to ensure that the sentence remains clear, grammatically correct, and easy to understand.
When to Use “As” at the Beginning of a Sentence
“As” can function in multiple ways in a sentence, including:
- As a subordinating conjunction (meaning “because” or “since”)
- Example: As it was raining, we decided to stay indoors.
- In this case, “As” provides the reason for the decision.
- To indicate simultaneous actions (meaning “while” or “when”)
- Example: As she spoke, the audience listened attentively.
- This shows two actions happening at the same time.
- For comparisons (meaning “in the way that” or “like”)
- Example: As expected, he delivered an excellent speech.
- Here, “As” introduces a phrase of comparison or expectation.
While “As” is grammatically acceptable at the start of a sentence, there are times when it might not be the best choice. Overusing it or placing it in a way that causes ambiguity can make your writing harder to follow.
Alternatives to Starting a Sentence With “As”
If you find yourself using “As” too often or want to vary your sentence structure, there are several alternatives you can use. The best alternative depends on the tone and context of your writing.
1. Instead of “As” Meaning “Because” or “Since”
When using “As” to explain a reason, consider these alternatives:
- Since it was raining, we decided to stay indoors.
- Because it was raining, we decided to stay indoors.
- Due to the rain, we decided to stay indoors.
- Given that it was raining, we decided to stay indoors.
2. Instead of “As” Meaning “While” or “When”
If “As” is used to indicate simultaneous actions, try:
- While she spoke, the audience listened attentively.
- When she spoke, the audience listened attentively.
- During her speech, the audience listened attentively.
- At the moment she started speaking, the audience listened attentively.
3. Instead of “As” for Comparison
For comparisons, you can use:
- Just like we expected, he delivered an excellent speech.
- Similar to our expectations, he delivered an excellent speech.
- In the way we predicted, he delivered an excellent speech.
Choosing the Best Alternative Based on Context and Tone
Depending on whether you are writing formally or informally, certain alternatives may be more appropriate than others.
1. Formal Writing (Essays, Reports, Business Emails)
If you’re writing in a professional or academic setting, clarity and professionalism are key.
❌ Avoid:
- As it was late, we left the meeting. (Can sound vague)
✅ Better:
- Since it was late, we left the meeting.
- Due to the late hour, we left the meeting.
2. Professional but Polite (Work Emails, Client Communication)
In professional emails, it’s important to be both polite and direct.
❌ Avoid:
- As per our conversation, I am following up on the report.
✅ Better:
- Following our conversation, I am following up on the report.
- Regarding our conversation, I wanted to check on the report.
3. Casual Conversations (Text Messages, Social Media)
When chatting with friends or writing informally, it’s okay to use simpler alternatives.
❌ Avoid:
- As I mentioned earlier, I can’t make it to dinner. (Sounds overly formal)
✅ Better:
- Like I said earlier, I can’t make it to dinner.
- Just a reminder—I can’t make it to dinner.
11 Texting Examples with Alternative Phrasing
Here are 11 texting-friendly examples that avoid starting with “As” while keeping the message clear and natural:
- Instead of: As we discussed, I’ll send the documents tomorrow.
Try: Just a reminder, I’ll send the documents tomorrow. - Instead of: As I mentioned earlier, I won’t be able to join.
Try: Like I said earlier, I won’t be able to join. - Instead of: As soon as I finish work, I’ll call you.
Try: I’ll call you right after work. - Instead of: As it turns out, she couldn’t make it.
Try: Turns out, she couldn’t make it. - Instead of: As expected, he arrived late.
Try: No surprise—he arrived late. - Instead of: As far as I know, the meeting is still on.
Try: To my knowledge, the meeting is still on. - Instead of: As we agreed, let’s meet at 3 PM.
Try: Just confirming—we’re meeting at 3 PM. - Instead of: As luck would have it, I got the last ticket!
Try: Luckily, I got the last ticket! - Instead of: As she spoke, everyone listened carefully.
Try: While she spoke, everyone listened carefully. - Instead of: As a reminder, the deadline is tomorrow.
Try: Quick reminder—the deadline is tomorrow. - Instead of: As I see it, this is the best option.
Try: In my opinion, this is the best option.
Conclusion
Starting a sentence with “As” is grammatically correct, but it’s essential to use it appropriately to ensure clarity and professionalism. If overused, it can make writing feel repetitive or ambiguous. Fortunately, many alternatives can help maintain variety and improve readability.
Whether you’re writing formally, professionally, or casually, choosing the right phrasing makes all the difference. By using alternatives like “Since,” “While,” “Because,” or “Like I said,” you can communicate more clearly and effectively.
