Understanding the Difference Between Began and Begun

The Difference Between “Began” and “Begun”

In English, “began” and “begun” are both forms of the verb “begin.” They come from Old English. They help us talk about starting something, but we use them in different ways.

History

Both words come from the old word “beginnan,” which means to start or commence. Over time, this word changed into “begin” in modern English. “Began” and “begun” are forms of this word.

How to Use Them

“Began” is used for the past tense. It tells us that something started in the past. For example:

• She began her homework after school.
• The show began at 8 PM.
• They began to laugh after the joke.
• He began to feel better after eating.
• The rain began at noon.

“Begun” is a past participle. It is used after “have,” “has,” or “had.” It tells us that something started but is often part of a bigger sentence. For example:

• She has begun her homework.
• The show had just begun when I arrived.
• They have begun to understand the lesson.
• He has begun feeling better.
• The rain had begun before we left.

Trick to Remember the Difference

An easy way to remember is: “Began” stands alone as a simple past action. “Begun” needs a helper like “have,” “has,” or “had” to make sense.

Summary

“Began” tells us about something that started in the past. “Begun” tells us about something that started with help from words like “have,” “has,” or “had.” Now, you can use these words correctly in sentences!