the onset of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the onset of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to the beginning of something, such as a disease or an event. Example: I experienced the onset of anxiety when I saw the crowd gathered around me.

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The onset of acromegaly is gradual.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The onset of syringomyelia is slow.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The onset of the disease is insidious.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Behold the onset of my flinty tone.

The New Yorker

With the onset of fall came rain.

The New York Times

The onset of camp-sickness is immediate.

The New York Times

Certain features characterize the onset of senescence.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It delays the onset of senility.

The Guardian

This may explain the onset of pain.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Just the onset of the spring rut.

The New York Times

"Is this the onset of labour?" she wrote.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a gradual process, follow "the onset of" with a word that reflects the gradual nature, such as "the onset of the slow decline" instead of "the onset of the sudden collapse".

Common error

While "the onset of" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it, especially in very formal writing. Vary your language by using alternatives like "the beginning of" or "the commencement of" for greater impact and readability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the onset of" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It typically introduces the commencement or initial stage of an event, process, or condition. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Encyclopedias

18%

Science & Research

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

1%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the onset of" is a versatile phrase used to denote the beginning of something, ranging from diseases to historical events. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across diverse contexts. While generally neutral in tone, it leans towards formality, making it suitable for academic, news, and professional writing. Remember to consider the specific context when choosing between "the onset of" and its alternatives, such as "the beginning of" or "the start of", to ensure the most appropriate tone and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the beginning of

This alternative is a more general and widely understood term for the start of something.

the start of

This option is very similar to "the beginning of" but slightly more informal.

the commencement of

Using "commencement" introduces a more formal and official tone.

the initiation of

This alternative emphasizes the act of starting or setting something in motion.

the emergence of

This option focuses on something becoming visible or known at the start.

the incipience of

Implies the very early stages of something just beginning.

the dawning of

This phrase is more figurative, suggesting the beginning of an era or period.

the genesis of

Highlights the origin or creation point of something.

the outbreak of

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

the kickoff of

This alternative is more informal and often used for events or projects.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "the onset of"?

You can use alternatives like "the beginning of", "the start of", or "the commencement of" depending on the context.

How do I use "the onset of" in a sentence?

"The onset of" is used to indicate the beginning of something. For example, "The doctor diagnosed the patient after the onset of symptoms".

Is "the onset of" formal or informal?

"The onset of" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. In highly informal contexts, simpler alternatives like "the start of" might be more appropriate.

What is the difference between "the onset of" and "the start of"?

While both phrases indicate the beginning, "the onset of" often implies a more gradual or significant beginning, particularly in medical or scientific contexts. "The start of" is a more general and informal term.