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Phrasal verbs "set on" vs "set out"

Differences between set on and set out

Set on usually means to be determined to do something or to attack someone, whereas set out generally means to start a journey or a task with a specific goal in mind.

Meanings and Definitions: set on vs set out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Set on

  • 1Attack.

    He was SET ON when he left the bar.

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 on, set out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

set on

Example

The dog set on the intruder.

Example

The cat sets on the mouse.

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 on

be dead set on

To be completely determined to do something, regardless of the obstacles or challenges.

Example

She was dead set on becoming a doctor, no matter how long it would take.

have one's heart set on

To be strongly determined to achieve a particular goal or desire.

Example

He had his heart set on buying that car, even though it was way over his budget.

set one's sights on

To aim or aspire to achieve a particular goal or objective.

Example

After finishing college, she set her sights on getting a job at a top tech company.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Set out

embark on

To start a journey or a new project with a specific goal in mind.

Example

They embarked on a road trip across the country, visiting different national parks along the way.

begin with the end in mind

To start a task or a project with a clear understanding of the desired outcome.

Example

When writing a book, it's important to begin with the end in mind and have a clear idea of the story's resolution.

start off on the right foot

To begin a task or a project in a positive and purposeful manner.

Example

She wanted to start off on the right foot with her new boss, so she prepared a detailed plan for her first week on the job.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “set”

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

Phrasal Verbs with “out”

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

Frequency in Daily Use: set on or set out?

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

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

Set on and set out 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 on and set out

The tone of set on and set out can differ based on context. Set on often carries a determined or aggressive tone when related to achieving a goal or attacking someone, while set out typically has a positive and purposeful tone, especially when referring to starting a journey or a task with a specific goal in mind.

set on & set out: Synonyms and Antonyms

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