Phrasal verbs "cancel out" vs "set out"

Differences between cancel out and set out

Cancel out means to neutralize or offset the effect of something, while set out means to start doing something with a specific goal or intention.

Meanings and Definitions: cancel out vs set out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Cancel out

  • 1Have an opposite effect on something that has happened, taking things back to the beginning.

    The airport taxes CANCELLED OUT the savings we had made on the flight tickets.

Set out

  • 1Display, show.

    The figures are SET OUT in the council's annual report.

  • 2Start a journey.

    The explorers SET OUT for the South Pole yesterday morning.

  • 3Arrange, organise.

    The contract SETS OUT all the details of the agreement.

Usage Examples: cancel out, set out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

cancel out

Example

The rain canceled out the benefits of the sunny weather earlier.

Example

She cancels out the calories she consumes by exercising daily.

set out

Example

They set out on their road trip early in the morning.

Example

She sets out for work at 7 AM every day.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Cancel out

To balance or counteract the effect of something by applying an opposite force or action.

Example

Eating healthy food can offset the negative effects of stress on the body.

To make something ineffective or harmless by counterbalancing or opposing it.

Example

The new security measures were implemented to neutralize the threat of cyber attacks.

To balance or offset the weight or influence of something by applying an opposite force or action.

Example

The company's profits from overseas markets helped counterbalance the losses in the domestic market.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Set out

To start doing something new or challenging with enthusiasm and determination.

Example

After years of planning, they finally embarked on their dream of traveling around the world.

To start a project or task with a clear goal or outcome in mind.

Example

Successful entrepreneurs always begin with the end in mind and work towards achieving their vision.

To start doing something that requires effort or courage, often with uncertainty or risk involved.

Example

She decided to take the first step and enroll in a language course to pursue her passion for travel.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “set”

Differences in cancel out vs set out: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: cancel out or set out?

In daily conversation, people use set out more often than cancel out. This is because set out is used for more daily tasks and routines such as starting a project or going on a trip. Cancel out is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about negating or balancing the effect of something. So, while both phrases are used, set out is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of cancel out and set out

Cancel out and set out are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of cancel out and set out

The tone of cancel out and set out can differ based on context. Cancel out often carries a negative or defensive tone when related to negating or balancing the effect of something, while set out typically has a positive and determined tone, especially when referring to starting a new project or achieving a goal.

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