What are the definitions of “set in”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Change season noticeably.
Winter has SET IN; it's started snowing.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “set in”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb set in is the noticeable change of a season, usually referring to the beginning of a new season. For example, it can mean the start of winter, spring, summer, or autumn.
What are the different verb forms of “set in”?
| Root Verb | set in |
| Third Person Singular Present | sets in |
| Present Participle | setting in |
| Simple Past | set in |
| Past Participle | set in |
Example
Winter has set in, and the days are getting colder.
Example
When summer sets in, the days become longer and warmer.
Example
Spring is setting in, and flowers are starting to bloom.
Example
Autumn set in early this year, with leaves changing color sooner than usual.
Example
By the time we reached the mountain, winter had already set in.
What kind of phrasal verb is “set in”?
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 in” 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
Winter set in earlier than expected.
Example
The rainy season set in last week.
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 in” 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
Winter set in earlier than expected.
Example
The rainy season set in last week.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “set in”?
Good things to know
Does “set in” have an informal or formal tone?
Set in is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as news reports or academic writing, depending on the specific context.
