Correcting 'It’s Starting Getting Cold Out': Grammar and Usage in English

Have you ever heard someone say, 'It’s starting getting cold out'? While it might not sound entirely wrong, this phrase is actually grammatically incorrect. Let's break down why and explore the correct alternatives, focusing on formal English and usage guidelines.

Understanding the Grammar

The phrase 'It’s starting getting cold out' is not a correct use of English grammar. The correct form is 'It’s starting to get cold out.' The infinitive form 'to get' is necessary after 'starting.'

Discussion on Different Opinions

Let's take a closer look at the various opinions and responses to this common question:

Response 1:

'It’s starting getting cold out' is not correct. The proper phrasing is 'It’s starting to get cold out.'

Response 2:

A response that suggests the phrase still works, indicating even if informal, it is understandable.

Response 3:

Another viewpoint, stating that the phrase is nonsense and would be better expressed as 'It the weather is starting to get cold.'

Response 4:

A native English speaker would use 'It’s starting to get cold outside,' suggesting a more natural phrasing that avoids the grammatical error.

Response 5:

Another argument suggesting alternatives such as 'It’s started getting cold outside' or 'It’s started to get cold outside,' offering variations that are grammatically correct but less common.

Response 6:

A nuanced response explaining that grammatical structure can be awkward and less frequently used, with 'It’s starting to get cold out' being a more natural choice.

Response 7:

A concluding response emphasizing 'It’s starting to get cold outside' as the standard, stating it is correct and more commonly used.

Response 8:

'It’s starting getting cold out' is grammatically correct but awkward in usage, suggesting 'It’s getting cold out' as an alternative. There is a distinction between the two, with the latter being more emphatic, suggesting a sudden temperature drop.

Formal vs. Informal Usage

While informal language can be flexible, it’s important to understand the nuances of formal English. In many contexts, particularly in writing or formal speech, the correct form 'It’s starting to get cold out' is preferred. This phrasing is clearer and more widely accepted, making it easier for English learners to understand and use correctly.

Key Takeaways

The correct form is 'It’s starting to get cold out.' The infinitive 'to get' must follow 'starting.' Alternative correct forms include 'It’s started getting cold outside' or 'It’s started to get cold outside.' 'It’s getting cold out' is another valid and more emphatic form, suggesting a sudden drop in temperature. Understanding the difference between formal and informal usage is crucial, regardless of how well understood a phrase might be.

Conclusion

While 'It’s starting getting cold out' might seem understandable, it is not the grammatically correct way to express the idea. The correct form is 'It’s starting to get cold out,' which is clear, widely accepted, and aligns with formal English usage. Emphasizing correct grammar ensures clarity and a more professional communication style, especially in academic or professional contexts.