What Is Another Way to Say “Not Started”?

Looking for synonyms for not started? We’ve got you covered!

Here’s a list of other ways to say not started.

  • Uninitiated
  • Unbegun
  • Incomplete
  • Uncommenced
  • Pending
  • Undeveloped
  • Unlaunched
  • Unopened
  • Unactivated
  • Unestablished
  • Dormant
  • Idle
  • Inert
  • Stalled
  • Unembarked

Want to learn how to say not started professionally? Keep reading for examples and use cases.

1. Uninitiated

Appropriate for projects or tasks that have not yet begun or processes that have not been started. Often used in professional or technical contexts.

  • Example: The uninitiated system upgrade requires thorough planning before we proceed.

2. Unbegun

Best used for work or projects that have not yet started, emphasizing the absolute absence of commencement.

  • Example: The unbegun research project was scheduled to start next quarter, pending approval.

3. Incomplete

Suitable for tasks or projects that have been started but not finished, highlighting the lack of completion.

  • Example: The report remains incomplete until the final chapter is added.

4. Uncommenced

Applicable to projects, tasks, or activities that have not yet begun, emphasizing the formal or official start.

  • Example: The uncommenced audit is expected to reveal significant insights once underway.

5. Pending

Ideal for tasks, decisions, or actions that are awaiting commencement or completion, often used in business and legal contexts.

  • Example: The project is still pending, awaiting the final sign-off from the board.

6. Undeveloped

Refers to ideas, plans, or land that has not been developed or utilized, highlighting potential rather than progress.

  • Example: The undeveloped software concept presents a significant opportunity for innovation.

7. Unlaunched

Specifically refers to products, campaigns, or initiatives that have not yet been introduced to the market or public.

  • Example: The unlaunched marketing campaign will target a new demographic of consumers.

8. Unopened

Appropriate for emails, messages, or packages that have not been opened, but can also metaphorically apply to opportunities or initiatives.

  • Example: The unopened proposals will be reviewed in the next executive meeting.

9. Unactivated

Suitable for accounts, services, or systems that have been set up but not yet activated or made operational.

  • Example: The security system remains unactivated until all sensors are properly installed.

10. Unestablished

Used for processes, relationships, or principles that have not been firmly established or accepted.

  • Example: The unestablished guidelines will need to be finalized before the project proceeds.

11. Dormant

Refers to projects, accounts, or processes that are in a state of inactivity but may be activated or resumed in the future.

  • Example: The dormant development project can be revitalized with the right funding and leadership.

12. Idle

Appropriate for resources, machinery, or personnel that are not currently in use or operation, emphasizing a state of readiness rather than disuse.

  • Example: The machinery has been idle for months due to the lack of new contracts.

13. Inert

Used for systems, substances, or situations where there is a lack of activity or motion, often in scientific or technical contexts.

  • Example: The project remains inert, awaiting critical data from our research team.

14. Stalled

Refers to processes or initiatives that have begun but are temporarily halted or slowed, often due to obstacles or challenges.

  • Example: The software integration project has stalled due to compatibility issues.

15. Unembarked

Ideal for journeys, ventures, or new initiatives that have not yet begun, emphasizing the preparatory phase before starting.

  • Example: The unembarked strategic initiative will redefine our approach to market expansion.

Linda Brown