Differences between come about and set about
Come about means to happen or occur, while set about means to start doing something with determination.
Meanings and Definitions: come about vs set about
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Come about
- 1Happen, occur.
The meeting CAME ABOUT because both sides were sick of fighting.
- 2Shift direction ( nautical ).
The yacht CAME ABOUT to a heading of 240 degrees.
Set about
- 1Start doing something.
We SET ABOUT the cleaning and got it done before lunchtime.
- 2Attack.
The gang SET ABOUT her as she left the bank.
Usage Examples: come about, set about in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
come about
Example
How did this situation come about?
Example
Change often comes about gradually.
set about
Example
She set about organizing the event.
Example
He sets about his work with enthusiasm.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Come about
To occur or take place without being planned or expected.
Example
I don't know how it happened, but I lost my phone.
To happen or take place, especially without being planned or expected.
Example
The accident occurred on the highway during rush hour.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Set about
To start or begin a task or project with a sense of responsibility or obligation.
Example
He undertook the challenge of renovating his house by himself.
To start or begin a task or project with a formal or serious tone.
Example
The ceremony will commence with a speech from the CEO.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “come”
Phrasal Verbs with “about”
Differences in come about vs set about: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: come about or set about?
In daily conversation, people use come about more often than set about. This is because come about is used to describe events or situations that happen naturally or unexpectedly. Set about is not used as much in everyday conversation. It's mainly used when we're talking about starting a task or project. So, while both phrases are used, come about is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of come about and set about
Come about and set about 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 come about and set about
The tone of come about and set about can differ based on context. Come about often carries a neutral or passive tone when related to events or situations, while set about typically has a determined and active tone, especially when referring to starting a task or project.
