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Phrasal verbs "set about" vs "set off"

Differences between set about and set off

Set about means to start doing something, usually a task or project, while set off means to begin a journey or trip.

Meanings and Definitions: set about vs set off

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

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.

Set off

  • 1Explode a bomb.

    Terrorists SET OFF a car bomb in the city centre last night. Fortunately, no - one was hurt or killed.

  • 2Ring an alarm.

    The smoke SET the fire alarm OFF.

  • 3Start a journey.

    We SET OFF for work at seven - thirty.

  • 4Counterbalance a debt.

    The company SET OFF its overseas debts against it profits at home.

  • 5Provide a visual contrast that looks good.

    The dark frame SETS the pale drawing OFF well.

  • 6Cause, trigger events.

    The pay freeze SET OFF a wave of strikes.

Usage Examples: set about, set off in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

set about

Example

She set about organizing the event.

Example

He sets about his work with enthusiasm.

set off

Example

We set off for our vacation early in the morning.

Example

She sets off for work at 7:30 every day.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Set about

get started

To begin doing something, usually a task or project.

Example

I need to get started on my essay if I want to finish it on time.

embark on

To start or undertake a new project or activity.

Example

She decided to embark on a new career path and enrolled in a coding boot camp.

take on

To start or accept a new task or responsibility.

Example

He was eager to take on the challenge of organizing the company's annual conference.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Set off

start out

To begin a journey or trip.

Example

We need to start out early if we want to avoid traffic on the way to the airport.

hit the road

To begin a journey or trip, especially by car.

Example

We're planning to hit the road next week and explore the national parks in the west.

take off

To begin a journey or flight.

Example

Our plane is scheduled to take off in half an hour, so we need to hurry up and board.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “set”

Phrasal Verbs with “off”

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

Frequency in Daily Use: set about or set off?

In daily conversation, people use set off more often than set about. This is because set off is used for more common activities such as traveling, going on a trip, or starting a car. Set about is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about starting a task or project. So, while both phrases are used, set off is more common in everyday conversation.

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

Set about and set off 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 set about and set off

The tone of set about and set off can differ based on context. Set about often carries a determined or focused tone when related to starting a task or project, while set off typically has an adventurous or excited tone, especially when referring to traveling or going on a trip.

set about & set off: Synonyms and Antonyms

Set about

Synonyms

Antonyms

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