# outset

/ˈaʊtˌsɛt/ (US) · /ˈaʊtsɛt/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/outset
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. the beginning

noun · CEFR B2

the start or beginning of something.

For teachers: 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'.

### 2. design element

verb · CEFR C1 · Technical

to make a part of a design look like it is on the outside or raised up.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- We made our goals clear from the outset.
- It was obvious from the outset that the project would require more funding than originally planned.
- Although the negotiations appeared promising at the outset, deep-seated disagreements regarding land rights eventually led to a total breakdown in communication between the two parties.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.