outset

noun

out·​set ˈau̇t-ˌset 

: beginning, start

Synonyms

• alpha
• baseline
• beginning
• birth
• commencement
• dawn
• day one
• genesis
• get-go
• git-go
• inception
• incipience
• incipiency
• kickoff
• launch
• morning
• nascence
• nascency
• onset
• start
• threshold

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

Starting with these two prompts eliminates ambiguity and sets the tone for a culture of mutual accountability from the outset. —Julia Korn, Forbes.com, 26 June 2025

From the outset, one thing was clear: this book isn’t just about menopause. —Emily Cegielski, Flow Space, 25 June 2025

Unlike many artists who leave tour planning entirely to their booking agents, Osborne insists on being involved in every detail from the outset. —Glenn Peoples, Billboard, 24 June 2025

Full disclosure, from the outset, is preferable to selective, partial disclosures designed to obfuscate and protect a candidate from public scrutiny. —Chicago Tribune, 23 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1759, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for outset

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

Kids Definition

outset

noun

out·​set ˈau̇t-ˌset 

: beginning sense 1, start