word choice - "To start" vs "to get started"


What are the differences in meaning and usage between "to start" and "to get started"?


Are there any cases in which these variants are not interchangeable? I feel that there are. For example, this page looks less natural with its Start tab than it would with a Getting Started tab. I cannot see why there is a difference. Could you please explain?



Answer



I think to some degree "to get started" is a weasel phrase. Either you start something, and then it runs, or you don't. "Get started" implies, start it, but don't expect any results yet, because you're still starting and not actually doing yet.


Of course, the language is full of weasel phrases that add color and fuzziness, attempting to reflect the nuances of reality. Feel free to use them when it feels natural, but when you need clarity, use a different phrase, such as "start the planning phase" or "Silverlight installation tutorial".


A similar phrase is "to finish up" vs. "to stop".


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