noun C1 Advanced Uncommon

outset

OWT-seht

Outset (noun) means the very beginning of something. Example: “From the outset, we knew this project would be difficult.”

noun

The very beginning of something.

"From the outset, we knew this project would be difficult."

"She made her intentions clear at the outset."

How to use outset

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe start or opening stage of something.

Easily confused with

onset →

Common pairings

from the outset at the outset

outset past tense, outsets plural, outsets singular

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.

Test yourself on “outset” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Can you complete this real example?

From the _____, we knew this project would be difficult.

From out- + set, replacing earlier outsetting.

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.

Vocabulary lists that include outset: