Learn English – Difference in using `start from` and `start with`

prepositions

What is the difference in using start from and start with in sentences like this:

You can buy a lot of things there starting from food and finishing with clothes.

There is a related question, but the context is different.

Best Answer

Start From indicates a position or marker to reference within a sequence.

Start With indicates a set of ingredients, an a priori position, or an asserted condition.

There's also Start At, or Start On - similar to Start From

Examples: We started with the grocery aisles, and had a full cart by housewares

Start from scratch - redo a process from the beginning rather than back up a step or two and try again.

Start with the basics - don't assume prior knowledge or experience.

Starting on pole position (racing) - enumerate the lead item and then down the list

Start at the beginning, and when you reach the end, stop - Read the whole account and don't leave anything out