set
noun (countable)
UK/set/US/set/
A fixed or established number of items, such as a TV set or a set in sports.
Example Sentences
She bought a new smart TV set that supports 4K resolution and streaming services.
The tennis set was highly competitive, with both players showcasing exceptional skills.
They decided to watch their favorite show on the large set in the living room.
During the volleyball match, each set was played to 25 points, requiring strategic teamwork.
He installed a new sound system to enhance the audio quality of his home TV set.
The basketball set included all the necessary equipment, such as hoops and balls.
After the power outage, the TV set needed to be reset to restore normal functionality.
The theater's set was designed to reflect the historical period in which the play was set.
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verb (transitive)
UK/set/US/set/
To put something in a specified state or position; to adjust or fix something.
Example Sentences
Please set the table with plates, glasses, and cutlery before dinner is served.
He set the alarm for 6 AM to ensure he wouldn't oversleep for his meeting.
They set the parameters of the experiment to test the new hypothesis effectively.
She set her goals for the year, aiming to improve her fitness and learn a new language.
The technician set up the equipment carefully to avoid any malfunctions during the demonstration.
They set a date for the project launch, allowing ample time for preparation and marketing.
He set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature before returning home from work.
During the hike, she set her compass north to navigate through the dense forest.
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adjective
UK/set/US/set/
Fixed or determined in advance; established; of primary importance.
Example Sentences
The meeting time is set for 10 AM, so please be punctual and ready.
They have a set schedule for their weekly team check-ins to ensure consistent communication.
Her set opinions on the matter make it difficult to reach a compromise.
The company has set policies regarding employee conduct and workplace behavior.
He adhered to the set guidelines during the project to maintain quality and consistency.
The set agenda for the conference included keynote speeches and panel discussions.
They followed the set procedures to ensure the experiment's results were accurate and reliable.
The set plan in place allowed the team to execute the project efficiently and effectively.
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Synonyms
Antonyms
How to Use
Set: to establish, a collection of items, or the act of arranging.The word "set" is one of the most versatile terms in the English language, functioning primarily as a verb and a noun, with additional uses as an adjective. As a verb, "set" means to establish, place, or arrange something in a particular position or state. For example, "Please set the table for dinner" or "They set a new record." It can also imply fixing or determining something, such as in phrases like "set a date" or "set guidelines." Additionally, "set" is used in various phrasal verbs and idiomatic expressions, such as "set off" (to start a journey), "set up" (to arrange or establish), and "set aside" (to reserve something for a specific purpose).
As a noun, "set" refers to a collection or group of related items, such as "a set of tools," "a chess set," or "a TV set." It can also denote a specific environment or backdrop used in performances, like "the set of a play." Moreover, in sports, a "set" represents a unit of scoring, particularly in games like tennis or volleyball.
In its adjectival form, though less common, "set" can describe something that is fixed or determined, as in "set in stone." The flexibility of "set" allows it to fit into numerous sentences with varying meanings, making it one of the most commonly used words in English.
Understanding the different contexts in which "set" is used is essential for effective communication. Its ability to convey a wide range of meanings—from establishing something, to referring to collections, to describing configurations—makes it a fundamental component of both spoken and written language. Mastery of the various applications of "set" enhances clarity and precision in communication, enabling speakers and writers to convey complex ideas succinctly.
Alternatives
Alternative words for "set" vary significantly based on its usage as a verb, noun, or adjective. When used as a verb meaning to establish or place, synonyms include "establish," "place," "arrange," "position," "fix," "put," "organize," "prepare," and "assign." For example, instead of saying "set the alarm," you could say "establish the alarm" or "arrange the alarm." In contexts where "set" implies fixing or determining something, alternatives like "determine," "fix," "decide," or "establish" may be appropriate.
When "set" is used as a noun to denote a collection, alternatives include "collection," "group," "series," "array," "kit," "batch," "assemblage," "suite," "assortment," and "bundle." For instance, "a set of keys" could be rephrased as "a bunch of keys" or "a collection of keys." In contexts where "set" refers to a specific environment or backdrop, synonyms might include "stage," "background," "scene," or "environment." For example, "the set of the movie" could be referred to as "the stage of the movie" or "the backdrop of the movie."
In its adjectival form, when "set" describes something fixed or determined, alternatives like "fixed," "established," "determined," or "solidified" can be used. For example, "set in stone" might be rephrased as "fixed permanently." Additionally, in idiomatic expressions, alternatives may involve rephrasing to maintain the intended meaning, such as replacing "set the stage" with "prepare the environment" or "set in motion" with "initiate."
Choosing the appropriate alternative depends on the specific meaning and context in which "set" is used. Ensuring that the replacement word maintains the original intent and fits seamlessly into the sentence structure is crucial for preserving clarity and effectiveness in communication.
Writing
When incorporating the word "set" into your writing, clarity and precision are paramount due to its multiple meanings and applications. To avoid ambiguity, provide sufficient context to convey whether "set" is being used as a verb, noun, or adjective. For example, in a sentence like "She set the vase on the table," it's clear that "set" is a verb meaning to place. Conversely, in "He owns a set of rare stamps," "set" functions as a noun referring to a collection.
Varying sentence structures can help manage the frequent use of "set" and prevent repetitive language. Consider using synonyms or rephrasing sentences where appropriate. For instance, instead of repeatedly using "set," alternate with words like "place," "establish," or "arrange" to add variety and maintain reader engagement.
Additionally, understanding the idiomatic expressions involving "set" can enhance your writing by adding depth and nuance. Phrases like "set in stone," "set the stage," or "set the record straight" can convey specific meanings effectively. However, use these expressions judiciously to ensure they fit naturally within your writing style and context.
When using "set" as a noun, be specific about the type of collection or environment you are referring to. For example, instead of saying "a set of tools," you might describe it as "a comprehensive collection of tools" to provide more detail.
Proofreading your work to ensure that each instance of "set" conveys the intended meaning is crucial. Check for proper usage in terms of tense, agreement, and context. This attention to detail ensures that your writing remains clear, precise, and impactful, even when utilizing a word with as many uses as "set." By thoughtfully integrating "set" and its alternatives, your writing will achieve greater clarity, variety, and effectiveness.
Casual Conversation
In everyday conversations, "set" is a highly versatile term that can be used in various contexts with different meanings. For example, you might hear someone say, "I'm going to set up a meeting for tomorrow," meaning they are arranging a meeting. Alternatively, "set" can be used when preparing something, such as "I'll set the table for dinner" or "Can you set the alarm for 7 AM?"
"Set" also appears in numerous idiomatic expressions commonly used in casual dialogue. Phrases like "set in your ways" describe someone who is stubborn or unchangeable, while "set aside" means to reserve something for a particular use, as in "Let's set aside some time to discuss this later." Additionally, in sports conversations, someone might refer to winning a "set" in tennis or volleyball, as in "She won the first set easily."
In hobbies or collections, "set" is frequently used to describe a group of related items, such as "a set of dishes" or "a chess set." When discussing entertainment, someone might talk about the "set" of a movie or play, referring to the scenery and environment used during filming or performances.
Understanding the context in which "set" is used in casual conversation helps in interpreting the intended meaning and responding appropriately. Whether you're discussing plans, describing habits, talking about hobbies, or engaging in sports talk, "set" is a versatile term that fits naturally into various conversational scenarios. Its broad range of meanings makes it a staple in everyday language, allowing for concise and effective communication across different topics and settings.
Etymology
The word "set" has a long and intricate history in the English language, making it one of the most versatile and frequently used words today. Its origins can be traced back to Old English "settan," which means to cause to sit or to place. This term is derived from the Proto-Germanic "*satjanan," related to Old Norse "setja," Dutch "zetten," and German "setzen," all carrying similar meanings related to placing or establishing.
Throughout Middle English, "set" maintained its core meanings of placing or fixing something in a particular position. Over time, the word's versatility expanded, allowing it to take on additional meanings and uses. Its adoption into various idiomatic expressions and phrasal verbs contributed to its widespread use and flexibility. For example, phrases like "set in stone" and "set the stage" demonstrate how "set" evolved to convey more abstract concepts beyond its original sense.
The noun form of "set" began to gain prominence, referring to a collection or group of related items, such as "a set of tools" or "a chess set." This expansion showcased the word's ability to adapt to different contexts and needs within the language. Additionally, in sports, particularly in tennis and volleyball, "set" became a standard term to describe a unit of scoring, further cementing its place in specialized vocabularies.
In contemporary English, "set" is recognized as one of the most polysemous words, meaning it has multiple related but distinct meanings. Its ability to function as a verb, noun, and adjective allows it to be seamlessly integrated into a wide array of expressions and contexts. The evolution of "set" reflects the dynamic nature of the English language, where words can expand and adapt to meet the communicative needs of speakers over time.
Moreover, "set" has been adopted into various other languages, often retaining similar meanings, which underscores its fundamental role in human communication. Its enduring presence and adaptability highlight its significance in both everyday language and specialized fields, making "set" an essential component of effective communication across diverse contexts.