a set phrase

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a set phrase" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a fixed expression or a commonly used phrase that has a specific meaning. Example: "In English, 'kick the bucket' is a set phrase that means to die."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

The titulature, introduced by a set phrase found on 13th- and 14th-century royal objects, glorifies the sultan in traditional bombastic eulogies.

The New York Times - Arts

"It's a set phrase," my chief editor explained.

Vice

Her adult life has been marked by constant war, so much so that "defeating the terrorists" is little more than a set phrase she rolls her eyes at.

Huffington Post

Granger argues that the books do not promote the occult because none of the magic is based on summoning any sort of demon or spirit; he contrasts occult invocational magic (calling up spirit beings to do your bidding) with literature's common incantational magic (saying a set phrase to use power from an unspecified source).

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Which of these is not a common set phrase with 'trip'?

BBC

An account written by Sarah shortly afterwards shows that she pleaded to be given an explanation of why their friendship was at an end, but Anne was unmoved, coldly repeating a few set phrases, "I shall make no answer" and "you may put it in writing".

Wikipedia

Say "tú eres caliente"... although the expression sounds like a literal translation of some very popular English set phrase.

WikiHow

Which set phrase means that criminals will not profit in the long term from their actions?

BBC

At about quarter to seven, for instance, he was downstairs on the sitting-room carpet trying to assemble a plastic robot that turned into a car and also into a gun and uttered set phrases through a speaker box and could also be operated by remote control.

The New Yorker

Trip is also often used in several set phrases: a business trip, a school trip and a day trip.

BBC

Once a set of phrases has been successfully established, we determine the probability of gene expression as the quotient of activatory phrases between the total of inferred phrases.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a set phrase", ensure the context is appropriate. Overuse can make your writing sound formulaic.

Common error

Avoid using "a set phrase" if a more precise or original expression would better convey your intended meaning. Generic phrases can sometimes lack impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a set phrase" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as an object or a complement. It describes a particular type of linguistic expression that is fixed and commonly used. Ludwig examples show it is used to identify specific examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

40%

Science

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a set phrase" is a noun phrase used to describe fixed and commonly used expressions. Ludwig AI says the phrase is grammatically correct and can be used to refer to fixed expressions or phrases that have a specific meaning. While not overly common, it's found in various contexts, including news, wikis, and scientific texts. To avoid overuse, be mindful of context and consider whether a more original expression would be more impactful. Related phrases include "established expression" and "fixed phrase". When using "a set phrase", ensure it is appropriate to the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fixed phrase

Underscores the unchangeable nature of the wording.

established expression

Focuses on the fixed and recognized nature of the phrase.

conventional phrase

Stresses adherence to accepted norms of language use.

common saying

Emphasizes the widespread use and familiarity of the phrase.

accepted wording

Highlights community agreement on its construction

idiomatic expression

Highlights the unique meaning that differs from the literal meaning of the words.

standard terminology

Focuses more on the acceptance and use of the phrase as normal in a certain field.

stock phrase

Highlights the overuse and lack of originality in certain contexts.

formulaic phrase

Implies a rigid structure and predictable usage.

clichéd phrase

Suggests the phrase has lost its impact through overuse.

FAQs

How can I use "a set phrase" in a sentence?

You can use "a set phrase" to describe an expression that is commonly used and has a fixed form. For example, "'Once upon a time' is a set phrase often used to begin fairy tales".

What's the difference between "a set phrase" and an idiom?

While both are fixed expressions, an idiom's meaning is not deducible from the literal definitions of its elements (e.g., 'kick the bucket'), whereas the meaning of "a set phrase" may be more transparent.

What are some examples of set phrases?

Examples of "set phrases" include "at the end of the day", "in the long run", and "as a matter of fact".

Is it okay to use set phrases in formal writing?

While some "set phrases" are acceptable in formal writing, it's important to use them sparingly and choose phrases that are appropriate for the context. Overusing them can make your writing sound unoriginal.