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

On the question of whether animators should calibrate their work for global comprehension from the outset, all three jury members pushed back against overt calculation. —Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 16 June 2026

That figure marks a significant drop from a recent peak attained in 2023, but borrowing costs remain well above a 0% rate established at the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic. —Max Zahn, ABC News, 16 June 2026

This fight was massively one-sided from the outset. —Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 13 June 2026

My understanding is that Florida asked for a first-round pick at the outset, which Carolina was never going to pay. —Pierre Lebrun, New York Times, 10 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1759, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for outset

• abet
• asset
• baguette
• banquette
• barbette
• beget
• beset
• binet
• briquette
• brunet
• brunette
• burette

Kids Definition

outset

noun

out·​set ˈau̇t-ˌset 

: beginning sense 1, start