Differences between set aside and set up
Set aside means to reserve or keep something for a specific purpose, while set up means to establish or arrange something.
Meanings and Definitions: set aside vs set up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Set aside
- 1Overturn a court verdict or decision.
The Appeal Court SET ASIDE the guilty verdict because the evidence was unsatisfactory and declared her not guilty.
Set up
- 1Prepare equipment, software, etc., for use.
The technician SET UP the computer network perfectly.
- 2Start a company.
They SET UP a dot com company, floated it a couple of years later on the Stock Exchange and made an absolute fortune.
- 3Provide someone with the money needed to live.
Winning the lottery SET them UP for life.
- 4Trick, deceive.
The police SET them UP.
Usage Examples: set aside, set up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
set aside
Example
The judge decided to set aside the previous ruling.
Example
She sets aside the decision and orders a new trial.
set up
Example
Please set up the chairs before the guests arrive.
Example
She sets up her workspace every morning.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Set aside
To keep or save something for a specific purpose or time.
Example
She decided to reserve some money from her paycheck to buy a new laptop next month.
To distribute or assign resources or funds for a specific purpose or project.
Example
The company decided to allocate more budget to marketing to increase brand awareness and sales.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Set up
To organize or plan something in a particular way or order.
Example
She arranged the flowers in a vase and put them on the dining table for the dinner party.
To create or start something new, such as a business, organization, or system.
Example
He established his own law firm after working for several years at a big corporation.
To set up or put in place a piece of equipment or software.
Example
The IT team installed new security software on all company computers to prevent cyber attacks.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “aside”
Differences in set aside vs set up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: set aside or set up?
In daily conversation, people use set up more often than set aside. This is because set up is used for more daily tasks and routines such as setting up a meeting or arranging furniture. Set aside is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about reserving something for a specific purpose. So, while both phrases are used, set up is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of set aside and set up
Set aside and set up 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 aside and set up
The tone of set aside and set up can differ based on context. Set aside often carries a deliberate or cautious tone when related to reserving or saving something, while set up typically has a practical and proactive tone, especially when referring to establishing or arranging something.