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

The result establishes Mercedes as the clear championship favorite at the outset of the 2026 season after its drivers qualified first and second and achieved maximum points. —Sahil Kapur, NBC news, 8 Mar. 2026

So satisfy the players’ egos at the outset, then get to what works best from a strategic standpoint. —Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 8 Mar. 2026

Pagliarulo asked Gonzales at the outset of the interview on Wednesday. —Lauren Peller, ABC News, 5 Mar. 2026

About 20 million barrels of oil would transit the strait per day before Iran started targeting vessels in the region at the outset of the ongoing war, representing about 20% of the world's oil consumption, according to a government report from last year. —CBS News, 4 Mar. 2026

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