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Onset Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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onset

[ˈɒnˌsɛt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

linguistics

The beginning or initial stage of something.

Synonyms

beginning, commencement, start.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
onset

Typically used to describe the beginning of something negative or unpleasant, such as a disease, struggle, or bad weather.

  • The onset of winter brought heavy snowstorms
  • She felt the onset of a headache
start

Casual and versatile, suitable for daily conversation to indicate when something begins.

  • Let's start the meeting now
  • I decided to start exercising every morning
commencement

Often used in formal contexts, such as ceremonies or official proceedings, to indicate the start of something significant.

  • The commencement ceremony was held in the main hall
  • We eagerly awaited the commencement of the project
beginning

Used in general contexts to describe the early stages of something, whether positive or neutral.

  • The beginning of the book was captivating
  • At the beginning of the school year, everyone feels excited

Examples of usage

  • The onset of winter brought heavy snowfall.
  • The onset of the disease was sudden and severe, catching everyone by surprise.
Context #2 | Noun

medicine

The first appearance of symptoms indicating the onset of an illness.

Synonyms

beginning, commencement, start.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
onset

Used often in medical or negative contexts to describe the start of something unpleasant or undesirable.

  • The onset of the disease was sudden and unexpected.
  • We need to prepare for the onset of winter.
start

A versatile and commonly used word applicable in both informal and formal situations to describe the beginning of an event, process, or action.

  • Let's start the meeting now.
  • The race will start in five minutes.
commencement

Often used in formal contexts, such as ceremonies or to mark the start of an official event.

  • The commencement of the graduation ceremony will be at 10 AM.
  • We are eagerly awaiting the commencement of the new project.
beginning

This is a general term for the start of something. It can be used in both formal and informal situations.

  • The beginning of the book was very captivating.
  • It's just the beginning of a long journey.

Examples of usage

  • The onset of the flu is usually marked by a high fever and body aches.
  • She experienced the onset of migraines at a young age.
Context #3 | Verb

medicine

To begin suddenly or abruptly, especially in reference to symptoms of an illness.

Synonyms

begin, commence, start.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
onset

Typically used to refer to the beginning of something unpleasant or unwanted, such as diseases, wars, or bad weather.

  • The onset of winter brought heavy snow
  • Early detection is key to manage the onset of the disease
begin

Used in general situations where an action or process is being initiated, without any specific formal connotation.

  • The movie will begin in 10 minutes
  • I will begin my project tomorrow
start

Commonly used in everyday language to signal the initiation of an action, often interchangeably with 'begin' but more casual.

  • Let's start the game
  • She will start her new job next week
commence

Often used in more formal or official contexts, such as ceremonies, formal events, or official processes.

  • The graduation ceremony will commence at 3 PM
  • The meeting will commence once all members are present

Examples of usage

  • The symptoms onset within a few hours of exposure to the virus.
  • The disease can onset at any age.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In narrative structure, the 'onset' often refers to the initial event that propels the main plot forward.
  • Classic works often use a dramatic onset to engage readers immediately, drawing them into the story.
  • Many authors choose to create a vivid onset to set the tone and pace for the rest of the narrative.

Psychology

  • Psychologists study the onset of behaviors or illnesses to understand triggers and early warning signs.
  • The concept of an onset can help in creating interventions to manage conditions early on.
  • Understanding the onset of anxiety or depressive episodes can assist in effective mental health strategies.

Science

  • In biology, the onset of a disease often determines its severity and approach to treatment.
  • Researchers categorize the onset of symptoms in various illnesses to improve preventive measures.
  • Seasonal changes can bring about the onset of certain natural phenomena, like migrations or blooming flowers.

Pop Culture

  • In movies or TV shows, the onset of conflict or challenges can be a pivotal moment that engages the audience.
  • Songs often feature an onset in the first few lines, setting the mood for the entire piece.
  • The onset of a trend can significantly influence global fashions and styles, impacting culture.

Origin of 'onset'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'onset' comes from the Old French word 'onset', meaning 'beginning' or 'approach'.
  • Its roots trace back to the Latin word 'in-cedere', meaning 'to go in', highlighting the idea of something starting.
  • First recorded use in English dates back to the late 14th century, relating to the concept of physical onset.

The word 'onset' originated in Middle English from the Old English word 'ansettan' meaning 'to set on.' It has been used in the English language since the 14th century. The term has evolved over time to encompass various meanings related to the beginning or initial stage of something, both in linguistics and medicine.

See also: beset, offset, preset, reset, set, setback, setlist, settability, settee, setting, settings, settling, setup, subset, unset.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,009 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.