| Phrasal verb | Main meaning |
|---|---|
set out [sɛt aʊt] | to begin a journey or start an activity with a purpose |
Other meanings
- to state, explain, or describe something clearly and in detail
- to arrange or place items on display or ready for use
- to intend or plan (usually used with "to" + infinitive)
Example Sentences Using the Phrasal Verb "set out"
- They set out early in the morning to avoid the heat.
- She set out to learn Spanish and practiced every day.
- The architect set out the plans during the meeting.
- He set out the tools on the bench before he started repairing the bike.
- The manual sets out the rules for use and maintenance.
Features of Using "set out"
Set out is versatile. When it means "begin a journey" or "begin an activity" it is usually intransitive and commonly followed by an infinitive (set out to do). When it means "explain" or "lay out" it is transitive — you can set out facts or plans. The particle out can sometimes be separated from set (e.g., "set the tools out"), so many contexts allow both orders. Pay attention to the meaning from context to decide if an object is required.
Other phrasal verbs with the verb set
set up
to establish or arrange something
set off
to start a journey
set in
to begin and seem likely to continue
set apart
to make something or someone different, distinctive, or special
set aside
to save or reserve something for a special purpose
set back
to delay the progress of something
set upon
attack someone suddenly and aggressively
set against
compare or contrast something with something else
🔗 Learn more about the irregular verb set, including its forms and usage.