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Phrasal verbs "set out" vs "start out"

Differences between set out and start out

Set out means to begin a journey or a task with a specific goal or intention in mind, while start out means to begin doing something, often without a clear plan or direction.

Meanings and Definitions: set out vs start out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

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.

Start out

  • 1Begin a journey.

    We STARTED OUT early in the morning.

Usage Examples: set out, start out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

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.

start out

Example

They start out on their road trip tomorrow.

Example

She starts out her new job next week.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Set out

embark on

To start a journey or a new phase of life with a specific goal or intention in mind.

Example

After finishing college, she embarked on a solo trip around the world to discover new cultures and gain new experiences.

undertake

To begin a task or project with a specific goal or intention in mind.

Example

The company decided to undertake a new marketing campaign to increase brand awareness and attract more customers.

commence

To begin something, often with a formal or ceremonial tone.

Example

The graduation ceremony will commence at 10 am sharp, so please arrive early and take your seats.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Start out

begin with

To start doing something, often without a clear plan or direction.

Example

She decided to begin with a simple recipe and gradually work her way up to more complex dishes.

kick off

To start something, often with enthusiasm or energy.

Example

The concert will kick off with an opening act by a local band before the main performer takes the stage.

dive into

To start doing something with enthusiasm or eagerness, often without hesitation.

Example

He decided to dive into the new project and explore all its possibilities, even if it meant taking risks and making mistakes.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “set”

Phrasal Verbs with “out”

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

Frequency in Daily Use: set out or start out?

Both set out and start out are commonly used in everyday conversation, but start out is more frequently used. This is because it can be used in a broader range of situations, such as starting a new job or hobby, while set out is more specific to starting a journey or task.

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

Both set out and start out are relatively formal phrases that can be used in business or academic contexts. However, set out may be slightly more formal due to its specificity and intentionality.

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

The tone of set out and start out can differ based on context. Set out often carries a determined or ambitious tone when related to achieving a specific goal, while start out typically has a more casual and exploratory tone, especially when referring to trying something new.

set out & start out: Synonyms and Antonyms

Start out

Synonyms

Antonyms

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