The term 'FIRST STAGES' can be broken down into two words, 'ONSETS' (6 letters) and 'ONSET' (5 letters). The word 'ONSET' is defined as the beginning or start of something, while the word 'ONSETS' is a plural form of the same word. Both words refer to the initial stages of something, such as a process, event, or activity. This term is often used in the context of a project or task, where the first stages are the most important and require the most attention.