outset
OWT-seht
Outset (noun) means the very beginning of something. Example: “From the outset, we knew this project would be difficult.”
noun
1
The very beginning of something.
"From the outset, we knew this project would be difficult."
"She made her intentions clear at the outset."
"At the outset of the trip, nobody had any idea how long it would take."
How to use outset
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe start or opening stage of something.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
from the outset
at the outset
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Word forms
- Plural
- outsets
- Third person singular
- outsets
Fill the gap
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From the _____, we knew this project would be difficult.
Etymology
Formed from out- and set, replacing an earlier outsetting.
Synonyms
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Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “outset” mean?
The word “outset” means the very beginning of something. In plain terms, the start or opening stage of something.
How do you pronounce “outset”?
“Outset” is pronounced OWT-seht (/ˈaʊtsɛt/ in IPA).
How do you use “outset” in a sentence?
Here is “outset” used in a sentence: “From the outset, we knew this project would be difficult.”
What part of speech is “outset”?
“Outset” is a noun.
Is “outset” a common word?
“Outset” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.
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