Definition

1. Noun:
   • The beginning or start of something: "outset" refers to the initial stage or point in time when something begins.

Examples

• Noun:
  • From the outset, it was clear the project would be challenging.
  • He made his intentions known at the very outset of the meeting.

Advanced Usage

• "at/from the outset": This is the most common phrase, used to mean "from the beginning."
  • It's important to establish clear rules at the outset.
• "from the very outset": An emphatic form to stress the very first moment.
  • She was involved in the planning from the very outset.

Variants and Related Words

• Onset (n): The beginning of something, often something unpleasant (e.g., ). While similar, "onset" often implies an active or forceful beginning, whereas "outset" is more neutral.
• Start (n): A more general synonym for the beginning of an action or event.
• Commencement (n): A formal word for a beginning or start.

Synonyms

• Beginning
• Start
• Commencement
• Inception
• Kickoff (informal)

Related Phrases

• Get-go (n, informal): A synonym for the very beginning, often used in the phrase "from the get-go."
  • I liked him from the get-go.
• Square one (n): Used in the phrase "back to square one," meaning back to the beginning.
  • The plan failed, so we're back to square one.

Noun

1. the time at which something is supposed to begin
   • they got an early start
   • she knew from the get-go that he was the man for her