What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sets
Example
I bought a set of dishes for my new apartment. [set: noun]
Example
The math problem required me to find the intersection of two sets. [sets: noun]
Example
The teacher asked the students to form groups and work on a set of problems together. [set: adjective]
series
Example
The detective series was so popular that it ran for ten seasons. [series: noun]
Example
I have a series of appointments with different clients this afternoon. [series: adjective]
Example
The author is known for writing a series of fantasy novels. [series: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sets are more commonly used in everyday language, as they are versatile and can be used in various contexts. Series are more specific and are commonly used in literature, entertainment, or other specialized fields.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sets and series?
Both sets and series can be used in formal and informal contexts, but sets are generally more neutral and can be used in a wider range of formality levels.