动工 dònggōng to start (a building project)
How to remember 动工: 动 move + 工 work = to start (a building project).
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How it is used
- To start a construction project - 大楼明年动工 (dàlóu míngnián dònggōng) the building breaks ground next year.
- Specific to building/engineering works; near-synonym 开工 (also 'start work', slightly broader).
- Milestone verb: 正式动工 (officially commence construction).