to start · to put one's hand to · to set about · the seat to the right of the main guest

She put aside the sewing and stood up.

Get them before they get us.

As the saying goes: As long as you don't offend me, I won't offend you. But there's another saying: To strike first means victory, to strike second means tragedy.

Let's deal with the formalities.

He slid his arms around her and kissed her.