All phrasal verbs
set
/sɛt/6 phrasal verbsThe plain verb means to place deliberately or to establish.
Set up, set off and set out all mean “begin” in some sense, which is exactly why they get swapped. Set up = establish or arrange something that will persist. Set off = start a journey, or trigger something. Set out = begin with a stated intention, or lay out formally in writing.
SET flaps before vowels: set up is “se-dup”, set it off is “se-di-doff”.
Side by side
Every SET phrasal verb, with the one line that keeps it apart from its siblings. Tap any one to open it.
| Phrasal verb | Means | How to remember it |
|---|---|---|
| set upSeparable3 meanings | establish; arrange; frame someone falsely | UP = build it so it stands. |
| set offBoth2 meanings | begin a journey; trigger an alarm or reaction | OFF = departure, or ignition. |
| set outBoth2 meanings | begin with a purpose; state something formally | OUT = you head out, or lay it out. |
| set backSeparable2 meanings | delay progress; cost a lot of money | BACK = progress moves backwards. |
| set asideSeparable | reserve for later; disregard temporarily | ASIDE = moved to the edge. |
| set downSeparable | put down; record in writing | DOWN = onto the surface or the page. |