its onset

USAGE SUMMARY

"its onset" is a correct and usable expression in written English.
It is often used to refer to the start or beginning of something. For example, you could say: "The pandemic's onset took many by surprise."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

At its onset, it was and is still difficult to find supporters who can see the opportunity of this project.

Huffington Post

While the oil cannot cure the disease, it can prevent its onset in boys predisposed to it.

The New York Times - Health

The device had detected the arrhythmia and terminated it with a shock within 10 seconds of its onset.

The New York Times - Magazine

"But it's actually even bigger than Harlem Shake at its onset.

The Guardian - Tech

Until its onset several things were clear.

The Economist

About 90% die within four months of its onset.

The Guardian

Its onset is also tied to genetics, but is linked to obesity and inactivity as well.

The New York Times

A journalist based in Paris, Thomas has been covering the luxury boom since its onset.

The New York Times

In the second book, he seems to place its onset closer to when he was seven.

The Guardian - Books

As Marilyn Monroe, Elvis and Playboy shaped its onset, the designers of car ads were close behind.

The Guardian - Arts

I've never read a more vivid description of the Oedipus complex, captured in the very first minutes of its onset.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the start of a process, consider using "its onset" to lend a formal or scientific tone to your writing.

Common error

Be careful not to confuse "onset", which means the beginning, with "offset", which means to counteract or balance something. Using the wrong word can significantly alter the meaning of your sentence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "its onset" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject or object in a sentence. It refers to the commencement or beginning of something, often used in contexts where a specific event or process is being described. As Ludwig examples show, it can refer to the beginning of a disease or a project.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

34%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "its onset" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that refers to the beginning of something. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. It is commonly found in news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the formality of your writing and be careful not to confuse it with similar-sounding words like "offset". Consider alternatives like "its beginning" or "its start" for simpler contexts. The phrase serves to mark the starting point of an event or condition. Remember that its meaning is clear and well-supported by numerous examples across diverse sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

its beginning

Replaces "onset" with a more general term for the start of something.

its start

A simpler and more direct synonym for "its onset".

its commencement

A more formal synonym for "its onset", implying a more official start.

its emergence

Focuses on the point at which something becomes visible or known.

its initiation

Highlights the action of starting or setting something in motion.

its genesis

A more literary term referring to the origin or creation of something.

its outbreak

Specifically refers to the sudden start of something negative, like a disease or conflict.

its incipience

A less common, more technical term for the very beginning stage.

its dawning

Suggests the gradual appearance or realization of something.

its roots

Focuses on the underlying causes and origins rather than the initial moment.

FAQs

How is "its onset" used in a sentence?

You can use "its onset" to refer to the beginning or start of something, such as a disease, a project, or a historical period. For example, "The disease is difficult to diagnose at "its onset"".

What are some alternatives to "its onset"?

Some alternatives include "its beginning", "its start", or "its emergence", depending on the specific context.

Is "onset" a formal word?

While not overly formal, "onset" is often used in scientific, medical, or technical contexts. In more casual settings, simpler terms like "beginning" or "start" may be preferred.

What's the difference between "its onset" and "the onset of it"?

"Its onset" is more concise and direct, while "the onset of it" is less common and can sound slightly awkward. "Its onset" directly modifies a noun, whereas "the onset of it" is more descriptive.