What are the definitions of “set forth”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1State or outline an opinion.
He SET FORTH his ideas in his autobiography.
- 2Start a journey.
We SET FORTH at daybreak for the summit of the mountain.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “set forth”?
The phrasal verb set forth has two common meanings. The first meaning is to state or outline an opinion, usually in writing or speech. The second meaning is to start a journey, often with a specific destination or goal in mind.
What are the different verb forms of “set forth”?
| Root Verb | set forth |
| Third Person Singular Present | sets forth |
| Present Participle | setting forth |
| Simple Past | set forth |
| Past Participle | set forth |
Example
She set forth her proposal during the meeting.
Example
He sets forth his argument in the essay.
Example
They are setting forth on their adventure tomorrow.
Example
We set forth on our road trip last week.
Example
The author set forth his views in the book.
What kind of phrasal verb is “set forth”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“set forth” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
The explorers set forth on their journey.
Example
She set forth her ideas clearly.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“set forth” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The explorers set forth on their journey.
Example
She set forth her ideas clearly.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “set forth”?
Good things to know
Does “set forth” have an informal or formal tone?
Set forth is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is appropriate for use in everyday conversations, academic writing, and professional settings.
