Synonyms of inception

inception

noun

in-ˈsep-shən 

as in beginning

the point at which something begins

this seemed like a good program at its inception, but it isn't working out as planned

Synonyms & Similar Words

• beginning
• commencement
• start
• onset
• launch
• alpha
• genesis
• outset
• dawn
• infancy
• threshold
• birth
• founding
• origination
• baseline
• initiation
• kickoff
• nascence
• inauguration
• incipience
• nascency
• incipiency
• origin
• morning
• day one
• get-go
• git-go
• creation
• arrival
• emergence
• first base
• advent
• dawning
• ground zero
• institution
• opening
• spring
• drawing board
• debut
• cradle
• germ
• source
• childhood
• well
• square one
• appearance
• début
• fountain
• wellspring
• root
• fountainhead
• youth
• seedbed

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• end
• conclusion
• ending
• close
• period
• completion
• termination
• closing
• closure
• cessation
• finish
• stop
• omega
• finale
• windup

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

Recent Examples of inception

Since its inception in 1992, the program has helped consumers save energy and money on utility bills, per the Energy Star website. —Kate Nalepinski, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 May 2025

Since its inception, 114 BHIPP interns have graduated from the program, Crosby Budinger said. —Katelynn Winebrenner, Baltimore Sun, 5 May 2025

At its inception, DOGE was largely supported by Republican lawmakers, who remain thankful Musk brought a spotlight on government reduction, even as some have frustrations over his approach. —Julia Shapero, The Hill, 2 May 2025

To the extent that such neat inception points exist in real life, an afternoon at an aging movie palace on the corner of Lake Park and Grand Avenues, in central Oakland, California, provided one for the filmmaker Ryan Coogler. —Jelani Cobb, New Yorker, 28 Apr. 2025