noun
beginning of things; starting something new
General term for the start of an activity or a new undertaking. Often used in contexts like learning, work, or annual events.
今年は何か新しいことを始めたい。こと始めにふさわしい季節だ。
I want to start something new this year. It's the perfect season for beginnings.
習い事の事
Starting a new lesson always makes me nervous.
noun
preparations for New Year's festivities (Dec 8 in Tokyo, Dec 13 in Kyoto)
Traditional custom of beginning preparations for the New Year, such as cleaning and decorating. The date varies by region.
京都では十二月十三日を事始めとして、正月の準備を始める。
In Kyoto, preparations for the New Year begin on December 13th, known as 事始め.
noun
resuming work after the New Year's vacation
Refers to the first day back at work after the New Year holiday. Often used in business contexts. Compare with 仕事始め.
See also: 仕事始め
事始めの日には、社長から新年の挨拶がある。
On the first day back at work after New Year's, the company president gives a New Year's greeting.