Word
outset
Phoneticsout·set, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈaʊtˌsɛt/
UK/ˈaʊtsɛt/
Definitions
01the beginning
B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun
n. the start or beginning of something.
n. the start or initial stage of an event, process, or period of time.
“It was clear from the outset that the project would take a long time.”
“From the outset of the negotiations, both parties demonstrated a willingness to compromise on the primary contractual terms.”
Usage
Commonly used in the fixed phrases 'at the outset' or 'from the outset'.
Pitfall
In the outset, we had many problems.
At the outset, we had many problems.
Use the preposition 'at' or 'from' with outset, never 'in'.
Synonyms
Antonyms
02design element
C1 · Advanced Computing Technical
v. to make a part of a design look like it is on the outside or raised up.
v. to cause a design element to extend around the outside of another element, creating a raised or external effect.
“You can outset the border to make the button look like it is popping out.”
“The developer decided to outset the shadow effect to provide more depth to the user interface components.”
Usage
Used as a transitive verb in the context of CSS and graphic design.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Real-World Examples
“Which plants remain open, which plants get built and whether new plants include pollution control equipment at the outset will affect Americans’ electricity bills.” “At the outset, please note that nothing has changed with respect to our analysis of customer data and the security of our products since our notification on January 11.” Etymology
From out- + set, replacing earlier outsetting.
From out- + set.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
PHRASAL VERB
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/outset