a set piece

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a set piece" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a specific, often dramatic or carefully arranged scene or event, particularly in literature, theater, or film. Example: "The climactic battle in the movie was a stunning set piece that left the audience in awe."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

I had to prepare a set piece.

The Guardian

Olivier Giroud's came from a set piece.

The Guardian - Sport

Why can't teams defend a set piece?

The Guardian - Sport

And it's once again from a set piece.

The New York Times

Predictably, their break-through came from a set piece.

The Guardian - Sport

Even smashing a guitar feels like a set piece.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

Or a set-piece.

The Guardian - Sport

A set-piece of course.

The Guardian - Sport

He needed a set-piece.

The Guardian - Books

"It will be a set-piece battle.

The New York Times

Liverpool dragged themselves level through a set-piece.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a set piece", consider whether the context emphasizes the pre-planned, dramatic, or conventional nature of the event or scene. Choose synonyms accordingly to fine-tune your meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "a set piece" in casual conversations or informal writing where simpler terms like "planned event" or "arranged scene" would be more appropriate. This phrase carries a slightly formal tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a set piece" functions primarily as a noun phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. It often serves to identify a specific, pre-arranged part of a larger event or performance, highlighting its planned and often elaborate nature.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a set piece" is a noun phrase used to describe a pre-planned or elaborately staged scene or event. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, particularly in news and media contexts. When using "a set piece", consider the context to ensure it aligns with the intended emphasis on planning and execution. While versatile, it is more suited to formal or neutral registers, making it ideal for journalistic, analytical, or descriptive writing. Alternatives include "planned sequence" or "staged event", offering nuanced ways to express similar concepts. Avoid overusing it in casual conversation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a planned sequence

Emphasizes the pre-planned nature of the event or scene.

a prepared performance

Highlights the element of preparation involved.

a staged event

Highlights the artificial or constructed nature of the event.

a fixed arrangement

Stresses the unchanging and predetermined nature of the element.

a choreographed segment

Suggests a carefully arranged and executed part of a performance.

a standard component

Highlights that the element is a usual constituent of something bigger.

a routine play

Focuses on the standardized or practiced nature of the action, particularly in sports.

a stock scene

Implies a conventional or frequently used scene, especially in theater or film.

a formal procedure

Emphasizes the structured and official nature of the action.

a typical example

Shifts the focus to the representative nature of the element.

FAQs

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

You can use "a set piece" to describe a pre-planned or elaborately staged scene in a movie, play, or event. For example: "The director designed the final scene as a stunning "a set piece" to leave a lasting impression."

What's a simpler alternative to "a set piece"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "planned event", "arranged scene", or "staged performance" instead of "a set piece".

In sports, is "a set piece" the same as a "set play"?

Yes, in sports, "a set piece" and "a set play" are often used interchangeably to describe a planned routine, especially in sports like soccer or rugby.

Is "a set piece" only used in the context of performances and sports?

While commonly used in the context of performances and sports, "a set piece" can also refer to any situation or event that is carefully arranged or pre-planned. For example, a political speech might be described as "a set piece" designed to sway public opinion.