Synonym Chooser

How is the word inception distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of inception are origin, root, and source. While all these words mean "the point at which something begins its course or existence," inception stresses the beginning of something without implying causes.

the business has been a success since its inception

When could origin be used to replace inception?

The words origin and inception are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, origin applies to the things or persons from which something is ultimately derived and often to the causes operating before the thing itself comes into being.

an investigation into the origin of baseball

When is root a more appropriate choice than inception?

The synonyms root and inception are sometimes interchangeable, but root suggests a first, ultimate, or fundamental source often not easily discerned.

the real root of the violence

When can source be used instead of inception?

While the synonyms source and inception are close in meaning, source applies more often to the point where something springs into being.

the source of the Nile
the source of recurrent trouble

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of inception Sullivan, a longtime devotee of the original, has been with the remake from its inception. Borys Kit, HollywoodReporter, 3 Sep. 2025 Since its inception, with the debut collection releasing this year, the label has been growing its offering of modern, sexy eveningwear that channels Old Hollywood glamour. Emily Mercer, Footwear News, 3 Sep. 2025 Since its inception in 2012, the exercise has been held 10 times and has become a key platform for China-Russia military cooperation. Micah McCartney, MSNBC Newsweek, 2 Sep. 2025 It’s ranked among the top five since the survey’s inception in 2014. Sophie Friedman, AFAR Media, 2 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for inception
Recent Examples of Synonyms for inception
Noun
  • The bill replaces the state’s once-a-year test with three shorter exams, to be given at the beginning, middle and end of the school year.
    Silas Allen, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 4 Sep. 2025
  • From the very beginning of launching her brand, Mutayo set her sights on the world stage.
    Ugonnaora Owoh, Essence, 4 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Graduates at the University of Toledo commencement ceremony are seen in Toledo, Ohio, on May 5, 2018.
    Hugh Cameron, MSNBC Newsweek, 4 Sep. 2025
  • Gold prices have risen by nearly a third this year, hitting new heights with the commencement of a trade war.
    Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 2 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Of course, the 0-1 start is not ideal.
    Evan Massey, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 Sep. 2025
  • Bergert had previously allowed three runs or fewer in each of his 13 major-league starts.
    Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 9 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • The figure indicated the largest number of job cuts in the month of August since 2020, which coincided with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
    Max Zahn, ABC News, 4 Sep. 2025
  • Drought can delay the onset of color, while moist soil, in tandem with the right late-summer weather, produces good displays, Crick wrote.
    Marina Johnson, Louisville Courier Journal, 4 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • During September, nationwide organizations like the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, NAMI and 988 Lifeline launch initiatives to raise awareness and take action for suicide prevention.
    Jenna Prestininzi, Freep.com, 8 Sep. 2025
  • In an exclusive interview, the rapper and actress opens up about navigating menopause and announces the launch of the new WeightWatchers for Menopause campaign, a holistic program to help women during the natural transition.
    Vanessa Etienne, PEOPLE, 8 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • If an alpha wolfs out under a full moon, they get stuck in that form forever and are doomed to be hunted and killed by their fellow werewolves.
    Selome Hailu, Variety, 4 Sep. 2025
  • But there will be several other stories at play, such as how Enid will navigate her fate as an alpha werewolf.
    Randall Colburn, Entertainment Weekly, 4 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Inception.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/inception. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

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