What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
set out
Example
We set out early in the morning to avoid traffic. [set out: phrasal verb]
Example
Let's set out the objectives for this project before we begin. [set out: verb]
commence
Example
The concert will commence at 8 pm sharp. [commence: verb]
Example
The graduation ceremony will commence with the national anthem. [commence: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Set out is more commonly used than commence in everyday language. Set out is a phrasal verb that can be used in various contexts, while commence is more formal and specific to certain situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between set out and commence?
Commence is more formal than set out. It is often used in legal or ceremonial contexts and has a more serious tone. Set out is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
