Let me start by saying
Presentation and public speaking expression
Use this to highlight your most important point at the very beginning of a conversation.
En 15 secondes
- A polite way to introduce your main point immediately.
- Used to set the tone for a speech or meeting.
- Signals that the following statement is the most important one.
Signification
This phrase is a polite way to introduce your most important point right at the beginning. It helps you grab attention and set the tone before you dive into the details.
Exemples clés
3 sur 6Starting a business meeting
Let me start by saying that our team did an incredible job this quarter.
Let me start by saying that our team did an incredible job this quarter.
Giving a wedding toast
Let me start by saying how honored I am to be here today.
Let me start by saying how honored I am to be here today.
Apologizing to a partner
Let me start by saying I am truly sorry for my mistake.
Let me start by saying I am truly sorry for my mistake.
Contexte culturel
This phrase reflects the Western preference for 'linear' communication. It helps the speaker establish authority and structure immediately. It became a staple of corporate and political rhetoric to ensure the most 'quotable' part of a speech comes first.
The Power of the Pause
After you say this phrase, pause for one second. It builds anticipation and makes your next point sound even more important.
Don't Overuse It
If you use this phrase five times in one meeting, you will sound like a broken record. Save it for your most vital point.
En 15 secondes
- A polite way to introduce your main point immediately.
- Used to set the tone for a speech or meeting.
- Signals that the following statement is the most important one.
What It Means
Think of Let me start by saying as a verbal spotlight. You are telling your listeners, "Hey, listen up! This is the big idea." It is a phrase used to prioritize information. You aren't just talking; you are framing the entire conversation. It acts like a headline in a newspaper. It gives people the most vital piece of news first.
How To Use It
You place this phrase at the very beginning of your turn to speak. It is usually followed by a complete sentence. For example, Let me start by saying thank you. You can use it to express gratitude, deliver big news, or clarify a position. It is like clearing your throat before a big announcement. It makes you sound organized and confident. Just make sure your next sentence is actually important!
When To Use It
This phrase is perfect for structured environments. Use it during a business presentation to highlight a key goal. It works great in a wedding toast to honor the couple. You might even use it in a serious talk with a friend. It helps when you want to be very clear about your intentions. It is common in interviews or public speeches. It shows you have a plan for what you are saying.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use this for tiny, everyday tasks. If you are ordering a burger, do not say it. It sounds way too dramatic for fast food. Avoid it in very casual, fast-paced chats with best friends. If you use it too much, you might sound a bit stiff. It is not for asking where the bathroom is. Keep it for moments that actually need a formal introduction.
Cultural Background
In many English-speaking cultures, people value directness. We like to get to the point quickly. This phrase allows you to be direct while remaining polite. It follows the "Bottom Line Up Front" rule often taught in business. It shows respect for the listener's time. It signals that you have thought about your message beforehand. It is a hallmark of professional Western communication.
Common Variations
You can swap this for a few other phrases. First of all is a bit more casual. I’d like to begin by is slightly more formal. To start with is short and punchy. Before I begin is another common way to set the stage. Each one does the same job of organizing your thoughts. Choose the one that fits your personal style best.
Notes d'usage
This is a neutral to formal expression. It is highly effective in professional settings but should be used sparingly in casual conversation to avoid sounding overly dramatic.
The Power of the Pause
After you say this phrase, pause for one second. It builds anticipation and makes your next point sound even more important.
Don't Overuse It
If you use this phrase five times in one meeting, you will sound like a broken record. Save it for your most vital point.
The 'Soft' Opener
In English, we often use 'Let me' to sound less aggressive. It's a polite way of asking for permission to take the floor.
Exemples
6Let me start by saying that our team did an incredible job this quarter.
Let me start by saying that our team did an incredible job this quarter.
Sets a positive tone for the rest of the professional meeting.
Let me start by saying how honored I am to be here today.
Let me start by saying how honored I am to be here today.
A classic way to begin a formal social speech.
Let me start by saying I am truly sorry for my mistake.
Let me start by saying I am truly sorry for my mistake.
Shows sincerity by putting the apology before any explanations.
Let me start by saying I am definitely ordering dessert first.
Let me start by saying I am definitely ordering dessert first.
Uses a formal structure for a silly, low-stakes decision.
Let me start by saying... I GOT THE JOB!
Let me start by saying... I GOT THE JOB!
Creates suspense and emphasis even in a digital format.
Let me start by saying I didn't mean to offend anyone.
Let me start by saying I didn't mean to offend anyone.
Used to manage a difficult social situation effectively.
Teste-toi
Choose the best phrase to start a formal presentation about a new project.
___ that I am very excited to lead this new initiative.
This phrase is the standard way to introduce a key sentiment at the beginning of a presentation.
Which word correctly completes this common expression?
Let me start ___ saying how much I appreciate your help.
The standard preposition used in this specific idiomatic expression is 'by'.
🎉 Score : /2
Aides visuelles
Formality of 'Let me start by saying'
Used with friends for big news.
Let me start by saying I'm engaged!
Standard for most meetings.
Let me start by saying thanks for coming.
Perfect for speeches and toasts.
Let me start by saying it is a privilege.
When to use 'Let me start by saying'
Business Pitch
Highlighting the main benefit.
Wedding Toast
Complimenting the couple.
Serious Talk
Opening a difficult conversation.
Award Speech
Thanking the organizers.
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsIt is a bit formal, but you can use it for dramatic effect or big news. For example, Let me start by saying... I'm moving to London!
Technically yes, but Let me start by saying is much more common and natural. Stick with by for the best results.
You should follow it with a full clause (subject + verb). For example, ...saying that I agree with you.
Yes, it is excellent for interviews! It shows you are articulate and can structure your thoughts well.
Usually, yes. It is meant to be the opening statement of your turn to speak.
Yes, it is often used to soften the blow. For example, Let me start by saying this wasn't an easy decision.
You can just say First, or To start, but they don't have the same impact as the full phrase.
Absolutely. It is used widely across all major English dialects, including American, British, and Australian.
It is a 'politeness marker.' It makes the speaker sound humble rather than demanding.
No, that would be very confusing! Use Let me close by saying if you are at the end.
Expressions liées
First and foremost
To begin with
I'd like to highlight
Before we dive in
For starters
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