Synonyms for Commence (same or very similar meaning)
WordNet sense 1 (get off the ground):
start, embark onWordNet sense 2 (set in motion, cause to start):
begin, lead offWordNet sense 3 (take the first step or steps in carrying out an action):
get, set about, get down, set out, start outFrom the ODE community, based on WordNetadd/edit