The term "outset" refers to the beginning or start of something. It is often used to denote the initial phase or starting point of an event, process, or situation. The frequency of use is moderate; "outset" is more common in written contexts, particularly in formal writing, literature, and reports.
At the outset, we need to establish the main objectives of the project.
(В начале нам нужно установить основные цели проекта.)
The onset of winter came as a surprise at the outset of November.
(Начало зимы стало неожиданностью в начале ноября.)
From the outset, she was determined to accomplish her goals.
(С самого начала она была настроена на достижение своих целей.)
"Outset" does not commonly appear in a plethora of idiomatic expressions. However, it can fit within phrases that emphasize beginnings. Here are a few example sentences with similar ideas:
From the outset of negotiations, it was clear that both parties had different intentions.
(С самого начала переговоров было ясно, что у обеих сторон были разные намерения.)
The project went smoothly from the outset, thanks to careful planning.
(Проект прошел гладко с самого начала благодаря тщательному планированию.)
They knew from the outset that it would be a difficult journey.
(С самого начала они знали, что это будет трудное путешествие.)
The word "outset" originated in the late 14th century, derived from the combination of "out" + "set." The root "set" comes from the Old English "settan," which means "to place or put."