What does the phrasal verb “set to” mean?

What are the definitions of “set to”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Work hard or enthusiastically.

  If we all SET TO, we should be able to finish this in a few hours.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “set to”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb set to is to work hard or enthusiastically on a task or project. It often implies that people are working together to complete something quickly or efficiently.

What are the different verb forms of “set to”?

Root Verb	set to
Third Person Singular Present	sets to
Present Participle	setting to
Simple Past	set to
Past Participle	set to

Example

If we all set to, we should be able to finish this in a few hours.

Example

She sets to her work with determination and focus.

Example

They are setting to their tasks with enthusiasm.

Example

Yesterday, the team set to and completed the project on time.

Example

The group had set to and finished the task before the deadline.

What kind of phrasal verb is “set to”?

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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 to” 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 volunteers set to with great energy.

Example

After a short break, they set to again.

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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 to” 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 volunteers set to with great energy.

Example

After a short break, they set to again.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “set to”?

Set to music

To create a musical composition or arrangement for a poem, story, or other text.

Example

The poem was beautifully set to music by the composer.

Set to work

To begin working on a task or project.

Example

As soon as he received the assignment, he set to work on it.

Set to do something

To be likely or expected to do something.

Example

The new law is set to take effect next month.

Good things to know

Does “set to” have an informal or formal tone?

Set to is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as in a work environment or academic writing.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “set to”?

Synonyms

• begin
• start
• commence
• embark
• tackle
• get to work
• launch into
• dive in

Antonyms

• stop
• cease
• halt
• discontinue
• rest
• pause
• delay
• procrastinate