At the outset Meaning in English
expression
ˈæt/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈaʊtˌsɛt
AT thuh OWT-set
ˈæt/ /ðə, ði/ /ˈaʊtsɛt
AT thuh OWT-set
Definition
Used to refer to the very beginning of an event, process, or period of time.
Usage & Nuances
A formal and somewhat literary expression; common in written English, speeches, and formal conversations. Equivalent to 'at the beginning', but more formal. Often used to introduce initial conditions or intentions.
Spanish: al principio - al comienzoPortuguese (BR): no início - no começoPortuguese (PT): no início - no começoChinese (Simplified): 一开始 - 起初Chinese (Traditional): 一開始 - 起初Hindi: शुरुआत मेंArabic: في البدايةBengali: প্রারম্ভে - শুরুতেইRussian: с самого начала - в самом началеJapanese: 最初に - 初めにVietnamese: ngay từ đầu - lúc ban đầuKorean: 처음에 - 시작할 때Turkish: en başında - başlangıçtaUrdu: شروع میں - ابتداء میںIndonesian: pada awalnya - sejak awal
Example Sentences
At the outset, I want to thank everyone for coming.
basic
We knew at the outset that this would be difficult.
basic
You should set clear goals at the outset of a project.
basic
Things looked promising at the outset, but soon got complicated.
natural
Don't worry if you feel lost at the outset; things get easier.
natural
We agreed at the outset not to rush any major decisions.
natural