Set apart

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Set apart" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate distinguishing or separating something from others, often in a positive context. Example: "Her unique perspective on the project really set her apart from the rest of the team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Set apart specific times in your day to train and become jealous of this time.

WikiHow

When human making was set apart, why was it?

Harvard University

Chromatin corresponding to 10% was set apart as Input.

Nature

Woods was set apart by his modus operandi.

The Guardian

His lineup picture was set apart by a different background.

The New York Times

We are no longer set apart from it.

Independent

"What kinds of places do we want to set apart?

The New York Times

The island, set apart, both expressed and offered spiritual advantages.

The Guardian - Books

LGH is set apart from the tourist beat.

The Guardian - Travel

WHAT YOU'LL FIND Geographically, Hudson Heights is set apart.

The New York Times

Like you are set apart [from] everything else.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "set apart", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being distinguished from what. For instance, "Her talent set her apart from other candidates."

Common error

Avoid using the wrong preposition after "set apart". "Set apart from" is correct, while "set apart to" or "set apart with" may be grammatically incorrect depending on the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Set apart" primarily functions as a phrasal verb. It is used to indicate either distinguishing something or someone from others or reserving something for a particular purpose. As Ludwig confirms, this phrase is usable in written English and commonly implies distinguishing or separating something.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

25%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "Set apart" is a versatile phrasal verb used to convey distinction or reservation for a specific purpose. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically sound and commonly used across varied contexts. Whether highlighting individual qualities or allocating resources, ensure the context clearly defines what is being distinguished and from what. Though versatile, "set apart" should be strategically used to emphasize unique qualities. While often seen in news, academic, and scientific sources, it maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse applications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Distinguish

Focuses on highlighting differences between items.

Differentiate

Similar to distinguish, emphasizing the act of recognizing differences.

Designate

Emphasizes the act of officially assigning something to a specific purpose.

Allocate

Highlights the action of distributing something for a particular use.

Reserve

Implies keeping something aside for a specific future use.

Segregate

Focuses on separating something from a larger group.

Isolate

Suggests completely separating something from its surroundings.

Earmark

Specifically indicates setting aside funds or resources for a particular purpose.

Mark out

Emphasizes the act of clearly defining or identifying something.

Single out

Focuses on selecting one item from a group for special attention.

FAQs

How can I use "Set apart" in a sentence?

You can use "Set apart" to indicate distinguishing something from others, like "His dedication "set him apart" from his peers" or reserving something for a purpose, such as "They "set aside" time each day for reading".

What can I say instead of "Set apart"?

Alternatives to "Set apart" include "distinguish", "differentiate", "designate", or "allocate", depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "Set apart from" or "Set apart to"?

"Set apart from" is generally used to indicate separation or distinction. "Set apart to" might be correct in specific religious or formal contexts, but "Set apart from" is more commonly used for general separation.

What is the difference between "Set apart" and "Separate"?

"Set apart" often implies a deliberate action to distinguish or reserve something, whereas "separate" simply means to divide or keep things apart. "Set apart" can carry a connotation of special purpose or distinction.