set

/sɛt/

Reviewed on

Also a noun and an adjective

Meaning

  1. To place something gently or carefully into a particular position.

    • He set the heavy box on the kitchen counter before taking off his coat.

  2. To establish, decide, or fix a rule, limit, time, or standard.

    • The committee met yesterday to set a firm deadline for the project.

  3. To adjust a piece of equipment, instrument, or control so that it is ready to operate.

    • Remember to set your alarm before going to bed tonight.

How it's used

When this means “place something”

  • set the glass on the table

“set it on the table.”

She set the glass on the table next to her laptop.

When this means “establish or fix”

  • set a new standard

“set it.”

The company hopes to set a new standard for customer service.

Collocations

  • set a deadline
  • set an example
  • set a goal
  • set a record
  • set the table
  • set an alarm

Synonyms

Idioms

  • set the record straight

    to correct a mistake or provide accurate facts

    The CEO held a press conference to set the record straight about the rumors.

  • set in stone

    fixed and unchangeable

    These plans are still flexible and not yet set in stone.