outset

American  

[out-set] / ˈaʊtˌsɛt /

noun

1. the beginning or start.

   I wanted to explain the situation at the outset.

2. outsert.

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outset British  

/ ˈaʊtˌsɛt /

noun

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

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outset Idioms  

1. see at the outset.

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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

Sigrid McCawley, a member of Lively’s legal team, said the case will now move forward on retaliation claims, which they described as its central focus from the outset.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 2, 2026

From the outset, the justices gave Trump’s solicitor general, John Sauer, a frosty reception.

From Slate • Apr. 1, 2026

Agentic AI is fundamentally shifting the compute landscape in AI data centers, which relied heavily on graphics processing units at the outset.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 20, 2026

Alas, note at the outset that Beijing itself doesn’t believe the economy is improving.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 19, 2026

Now, at the outset of the space race, leaving the building at ten o’clock would be a good night.

From "Hidden Figures" by Margot Lee Shetterly

Related Words

• beginning