at the outset

USAGE SUMMARY

'at the outset' is correct and can be used in written English.
It is usually used when referring to the start of something, and is most commonly used in formal writing. Example sentence: At the outset of the meeting, the agenda was discussed.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We're just at the outset.

The New York Times - Magazine

But contradictions appeared at the outset.

The New York Times

At the outset there is excitement.

The Economist

He admitted as much at the outset.

Independent

The deal was criticized at the outset.

The New York Times

Crosby made an impact at the outset.

The New York Times - Sports

Make your wishes known at the outset.

The New York Times

At least at the outset.

The New York Times - Arts

Economically, that makes sense at the outset.

Harvard University

Every platform is empty at the outset.

Harvard Business Review

At the outset internal contracting proved problematic.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at the outset" to clearly indicate the beginning of a process, discussion, or event, ensuring that the initial context is well-established for your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "at the outset" in very informal conversations; opt for simpler alternatives like "at the start" or "to begin with" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at the outset" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate when something begins or originates. It sets the temporal context for the action or statement that follows. Ludwig confirms this by showcasing several examples where the phrase is used to introduce initial conditions, actions, or considerations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

39%

Academia

24%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at the outset" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that indicates the beginning of something. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage and provides numerous examples from reputable sources. It is most frequently found in News & Media, Science, and Academia contexts, suggesting a formal or semi-formal register. While "at the outset" is a versatile phrase, it's important to consider the context and audience to ensure the tone is appropriate. For more informal settings, alternatives like "at the beginning" or "initially" may be more suitable. Remember to use "at the outset" to clearly establish the initial context and provide a solid foundation for your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the beginning

Focuses on the temporal start of an event or process.

initially

Emphasizes the first stage or phase of something.

to begin with

Used to introduce the first point or consideration.

at first

Highlights the initial state or impression.

in the initial phase

Specifically refers to the early stage of a process.

at the start

Similar to "at the beginning", but can also refer to the starting point of a race or journey.

in the early stages

Implies a process that is still developing.

from the get-go

An informal expression indicating the very beginning.

at inception

Emphasizes the moment something is created or founded.

in the first instance

Highlights the first action or step taken.

FAQs

How can I use "at the outset" in a sentence?

You can use "at the outset" to introduce the initial phase or starting point of a discussion, project, or event. For instance, "At the outset of the meeting, the agenda was reviewed".

What are some alternatives to "at the outset"?

Alternatives include phrases like "at the beginning", "initially", or "to begin with", depending on the context.

Is "at the outset" formal or informal?

"At the outset" is generally considered a formal phrase, suitable for academic, business, or news contexts. Simpler alternatives may be preferred in informal settings.

What's the difference between "at the outset" and "at the start"?

While both phrases refer to the beginning, "at the outset" tends to be more formal and is often used to introduce a broader context or initial considerations, whereas "at the start" can refer to a more specific starting point or event.