outset

noun

out·​set ˈau̇t-ˌset How to pronounce outset (audio)

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Day Two will focus on what organizers have described as international success, with sessions on Development, Audience, The New Deal, and strategies for Breaking Into New Markets, equipping filmmakers with the tools to think globally from the outset. Zac Ntim, Deadline, 15 Oct. 2025 Sexton’s first true taste of teaming with Ball in game action from the outset came in Saturday night’s preseason win over the Dallas Mavericks and Lee seemed encouraged by the early results leading into Wednesday night’s preseason matchup against Memphis at the Greensboro Coliseum. Roderick Boone, Charlotte Observer, 14 Oct. 2025 In reality, the wheels were falling off the defense almost from the outset. Saad Yousuf, New York Times, 9 Oct. 2025 That was the goal set out by Prime Minister Netanyahu from the outset, that Hamas is disarmed, that Gaza is de-radicalized and demilitarized. Caitlin McFall, FOXNews.com, 9 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for outset

Word History

First Known Use

1759, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of outset was in 1759

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Cite this Entry

“Outset.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/outset. Accessed 21 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

outset

noun
out·​set ˈau̇t-ˌset How to pronounce outset (audio)

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