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How to Say "let's begin" in Spanish

English → Spanish

empecemos

em-peh-SEH-mos/empeˈsemos/

VerbA1General
Use this common and versatile option to suggest or command the start of an activity, especially when time is a factor.
A simplified illustration showing two friendly, stylized figures stepping together across a bright white line onto a vibrant green path, symbolizing the beginning of an action.

Examples

¡Ya es tarde! Empecemos la reunión.

It's already late! Let's start the meeting.

Empecemos por el primer capítulo.

Let's begin with the first chapter.

No empecemos a discutir sobre eso otra vez.

Let's not start arguing about that again.

The 'Let's' Form

In Spanish, to say 'Let's [do something],' you use the 'nosotros' form of the special verb mood (called the present subjunctive). 'Empecemos' is exactly that—a way to propose an action to your group.

Spelling Change Rule

The infinitive is 'empezar.' When conjugating verbs that end in -zar before an 'e' (like in 'empecemos'), the 'z' changes to a 'c' to keep the correct 's' sound.

Confusing 'Let's Start' with 'We Start'

Mistake: “Using 'Empezamos' (We start) when you mean 'Empecemos' (Let's start).”

Correction: 'Empezamos' is a statement of fact (We start/We started). 'Empecemos' is a suggestion or command (Let's start!).

comencemos

koh-mehn-SEH-mohs/ko.menˈse.mos/

VerbA2General
This is a good choice for suggesting the start of an activity when everything is prepared and you're ready to proceed.
A dramatic, colorful red stage curtain being pulled fully open by a hand wearing a white glove, revealing a bright, empty stage, symbolizing the commencement of an activity.

Examples

Ya tenemos todo listo. ¡Comencemos la reunión!

We already have everything ready. Let's start the meeting!

Si todos están de acuerdo, comencemos a trabajar en el proyecto ahora.

If everyone agrees, let's begin working on the project now.

No quiero que comencemos sin el profesor.

I don't want us to start without the teacher.

The 'Let's' Command

In Spanish, the way you say 'Let's [do something]' is usually by using the 'nosotros' form of a special verb mood (called the present subjunctive). 'Comencemos' is this exact form for 'comenzar'.

Spelling Rule (Z to C)

The base verb is 'comenZar.' When the 'Z' comes before the letter 'E' (like in 'comencemos'), Spanish rules require the 'Z' to change to a 'C' to keep the same sound. This happens only in certain forms.

Mixing up the 'Let's' form

Mistake: “Using the indicative form for a command: 'Comenzamos ahora.'”

Correction: The correct command is 'Comencemos ahora.' The form 'comenzamos' just means 'We are starting' (a statement), not 'Let's start' (a suggestion).

entremos

en-TREH-mos[enˈt̪ɾe.mos]

VerbA1General
Use this when you want to figuratively 'enter into' a topic, a place, or a situation, often implying a transition.
Two friendly cartoon characters stand outside a brightly colored doorway. One character holds the door slightly ajar and looks back at the other, inviting them inside.

Examples

¡Qué frío! Entremos ya, por favor.

It's so cold! Let's go in now, please.

Entremos en materia: ¿quién se encargará del proyecto?

Let's get down to business: who will be in charge of the project?

Si no hay más preguntas, entremos a la siguiente fase.

If there are no more questions, let's move on to the next phase.

The 'Let's' Command

In Spanish, the 'nosotros' (we) command, meaning 'Let's...', uses the same form as the present subjunctive: 'entremos'.

Using the Indicative for Commands

Mistake: “Entramos ahora. (Using the normal present tense for a command)”

Correction: ¡Entremos ahora! (Use the special command form for 'Let's...')

Choosing Between 'Empecemos' and 'Comencemos'

The most common confusion is between 'empecemos' and 'comencemos'. While both mean 'let's start', 'empecemos' is more frequent and often used when urgency is implied. 'Comencemos' is slightly more formal and suggests a more organized beginning once preparations are complete.

Related Translations

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