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Phrasal verbs "fly about" vs "set about"

Differences between fly about and set about

Fly about means to move around quickly and busily, while set about means to start doing something with determination or intention.

Meanings and Definitions: fly about vs set about

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Fly about

  • 1Circulate ( rumours, etc ).

    The rumour has been FLYING ABOUT for the past week, but no one has confirmed it.

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: fly about, set about in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

fly about

Example

The news of the company's success is flying about the office.

Example

The gossip flies about the school quickly.

set about

Example

She set about organizing the event.

Example

He sets about his work with enthusiasm.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Fly about

buzz around

To move around quickly and busily, often with a sense of urgency or excitement.

Example

The bees were buzzing around the flowers, collecting nectar to make honey.

dart around

To move around quickly and suddenly, often changing direction frequently.

Example

The children were darting around the playground, playing tag and having fun.

whirl around

To move around quickly and in a circular motion, often with a sense of disorientation or confusion.

Example

She felt dizzy after whirling around too many times on the amusement park ride.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Set about

get down to

To start doing something with focus and determination.

Example

After procrastinating for hours, he finally got down to writing his essay.

embark on

To start a new project or activity with enthusiasm and commitment.

Example

She decided to embark on a new fitness routine to improve her health and wellbeing.

tackle

To start dealing with a problem or challenge in a proactive and determined way.

Example

He knew he had to tackle the difficult conversation with his boss to resolve the issue at work.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “fly”

Phrasal Verbs with “set”

Differences in fly about vs set about: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: fly about or set about?

In daily conversation, people use set about more often than fly about. This is because set about is used for a wider range of activities and tasks, such as starting a project or completing a task. Fly about is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about someone moving around quickly and busily. So, while both phrases are used, set about is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of fly about and set about

Fly 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 fly about and set about

The tone of fly about and set about can differ based on context. Fly about often carries a sense of urgency or busyness, while set about typically has a determined or intentional tone, especially when referring to starting a task or project.

fly about & set about: Synonyms and Antonyms

Fly about

Antonyms

Set about

Synonyms

Antonyms

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