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Anonymous Posted 16 years ago
Grammar

Started out vs. started off

I started out as a painter.
I started off as a painter.

Is there any difference between the phrasal verbs above?
If so, how are they different?

Thank you.
  

Top answer

Not much here. To me, the second promises advancement more clearly.

— Mister Micawber

  • Not much here.
  • To me, the second promises advancement more clearly.
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5 Answers
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Not much here. To me, the second promises advancement more clearly.
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I think most people would class them as the same.

I might use started out if there has been a big progression/change and off for a smaller change/progression.

Started out sounds more like a job to me, started off sounds more like a career.

To be honest I have never thought about it until you asked.
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Thank you so much, MM and Dave, for your answers. I think, to non-native speakers like me, there's really much confusion going on in our heads that we asked even those that have never been thought of. Again, thanks. I really appreciate it.
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No problem - We like you asking, it makes us think about these things. Keep asking, although you might get more people answer if you register.
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Sure thing, I will do that.

Cheers,
Hector
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