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
• birth
• threshold
• founding
• origination
• baseline
• initiation
• nascence
• incipience
• inauguration
• nascency
• incipiency
• origin
• morning
• day one
• kickoff
• get-go
• creation
• arrival
• emergence
• advent
• first base
• institution
• opening
• spring
• drawing board
• debut
• cradle
• dawning
• ground zero
• source
• germ
• childhood
• well
• square one
• appearance
• fountain
• root
• fountainhead
• youth
• wellspring
• 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

The deputies at the Poway Sheriff’s Station will be joining the game for the first time, in addition to the Poway firefighters who have participated since the game’s inception, according to Tony Rubino, who is organizing the event. —Elizabeth Marie Himchak, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 Nov. 2025

Hall has worked at the RJC since its inception in 2005. —Vogue Business Team, Vogue, 4 Nov. 2025

Since its inception 33 years ago, the Premier League has seen more than 5,000 players. —Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 4 Nov. 2025

Shortly after Civic Media's inception in 2022, Matenaer joined the network as a producer. —Hannah Kirby, jsonline.com, 4 Nov. 2025