outset

noun

out·​set ˈau̇t-ˌset 

: beginning, start

Synonyms of outset

• beginning
• start
• inception
• onset
• commencement

Examples of outset in a Sentence

There have been problems with the project from the outset.

From its very outset, the company has produced the highest quality products.

He made it clear at the outset that he is not going to quit his job.

She set high goals for herself at the outset of her career.

Recent Examples on the Web

Yet when considered against the nightmare scenarios contemplated at the war’s outset, oil prices have remained low and natural gas markets have proved resilient. — Jason Bordoff, Foreign Affairs, 14 Aug. 2026

At the outset of this chatty novel, the protagonist, Caroline, who was recently ghosted by a thoughtless man, has had a story published in this magazine. — The New Yorker, New Yorker, 10 Aug. 2026

That trial proposes testing biomarkers from blood and urine at the outset, then comparing chronological and biological age over time. — Mark Ellwood, Robb Report, 9 Aug. 2026

Young, 80, has described the project as deeply personal from the outset. — Spin Staff, SPIN, 7 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1759, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for outset

• abet
• asset
• baguette
• banquette
• barbette
• beget
• beset
• binet
• briquette
• brunet
• brunette
• burette

Kids Definition

outset

noun

out·​set ˈau̇t-ˌset 

: beginning sense 1, start