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débuter

to begin, to start out

verb deh-bü-TEH Rare

Origin: French début 'beginning' + -er

Usage Note

Débuter is often used for a person starting a career or activity (débuter dans le métier) or for an event starting. It is slightly more formal or literary than commencer. The noun débutant/débutante means 'beginner'. Unlike commencer, débuter does not take a direct object in standard usage.

Examples

"Le spectacle débute à vingt heures."

Natural Translation

The show starts at eight o'clock.

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