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Phrasal verbs "set off" vs "set out"

Differences between set off and set out

Set off means to start a journey or trip, while set out means to begin a task or plan.

Meanings and Definitions: set off vs set out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

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.

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: set off, set out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

set off

Example

We set off for our vacation early in the morning.

Example

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

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 Set off

embark on

To start a journey or undertaking, especially one that is challenging or significant.

Example

She decided to embark on a solo backpacking trip through Europe to challenge herself and explore new cultures.

hit the road

To start a journey or trip, especially by car or other vehicle.

Example

After packing their bags, they hit the road and drove to the beach for a weekend getaway.

begin a trek

To start a long and challenging journey, especially on foot or in nature.

Example

They planned to begin their trek early in the morning to avoid the heat and reach the summit before sunset.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Set out

start a project

To begin a task or plan, especially one that requires effort, time, or resources.

Example

They decided to start their project by outlining the goals, timeline, and budget to ensure a successful outcome.

embark on a mission

To start a challenging or important task or goal, especially one that requires dedication or perseverance.

Example

He was determined to embark on a mission to improve his fitness and health by following a strict diet and exercise routine.

commence a plan

To start a detailed or strategic plan, especially one that involves multiple steps or stakeholders.

Example

They decided to commence their plan by identifying the key objectives, risks, and opportunities to achieve their business goals.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “set”

Phrasal Verbs with “off”

Phrasal Verbs with “out”

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

Frequency in Daily Use: set off or set out?

Both set off and set out are commonly used in everyday conversation, but set out is slightly more common. This is because it can be used in a wider range of situations, such as starting a project or outlining a plan.

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

Both set off and set out are informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, set out can be used in more formal settings like business or academic contexts.

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

The tone of set off and set out can differ based on context. Set off often carries an adventurous or exciting tone when related to traveling or exploring, while set out typically has a determined and focused tone, especially when referring to starting a project or goal.

set off & set out: Synonyms and Antonyms

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