"Point of departure" is a phrase used to express the starting point of something. Some synonyms for this term include "beginning point," "originating point," "commencement," "starting place," "outset," "initiation," "origin," and "genesis." Each of these synonyms conveys a slightly different nuance. "Beginning point," for instance, suggests the earliest point in a sequence, whereas "outset" connotes the first steps on a journey. "Commencement" has a formal tone, indicating the start of an official event or process. Regardless of the synonym chosen, all express the idea of where something begins or where a journey begins. These words are useful for writers who want to vary their language to sound more professional.