outset

American  

[out-set] / ˈaʊtˌsɛt /

noun

1. the beginning or start.

   I wanted to explain the situation at the outset.

2. outsert.

---

outset British  

/ ˈaʊtˌsɛt /

noun

1. a start; beginning (esp in the phrase from ( or at ) the outset )

---

outset Idioms  

1. see at the outset.

---

Etymology

Origin of outset

First recorded in 1530–40; out- + set

Compare meaning

How does outset compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• onset vs. outset

Example Sentences

From the outset of Operation Metro Surge, Frey has struck a forceful tone.

From The Wall Street Journal

Rachel and Stephen were both chosen as traitors at the outset, and soon formed an alliance to stick together.

From BBC

“Multiple proceedings have now affirmed what we have stated from the outset: Venture Global has fully honored the clear and mutually agreed-upon terms of our long-term contracts without exception,” a company spokesperson told Barron’s.

From Barron's

“Multiple proceedings have now affirmed what we have stated from the outset: Venture Global has fully honored the clear and mutually agreed-upon terms of our long-term contracts without exception,” a company spokesperson told Barron’s.

From Barron's

“Multiple proceedings have now affirmed what we have stated from the outset: Venture Global has fully honored the clear and mutually agreed-upon terms of our long-term contracts without exception,” a spokesperson for Venture told Barron’s.

From Barron's

Related Words

• beginning