are set against

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are set against" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate opposition or conflict between two parties or ideas. Example: "The two groups are set against each other in this debate over environmental policies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Villains are set against representatives of good.

The Guardian - Books

But those bright spots are set against other, darker challenges.

The Guardian

What benefits are set against these enormous costs?

The Economist

Two contrasting melodic ideas are set against one another.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Near-motionless heads are set against black backdrops.

The Guardian - Arts

Simple bungalows are set against more ornate Mediterranean-style homes.

The New York Times

The tables are set against an oxblood leather banquette.

Independent

They are also incorporated into the ads, which are set against a solid bright yellow background.

The New York Times

These are set against anxieties about otherness, about control and the loss of it.

The New Yorker

"These engaging stories are set against contrasting landscapes which include Brooklyn, Iceland and Lagos".

The Guardian - Books

In photographs, traditional English gardens, with their rows of conical shrubberies, are set against marbled backgrounds.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are set against" to highlight the contrast or conflict between two distinct entities or ideas, making the distinction more impactful for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "are set against" when simply describing different aspects of a single entity. This phrase is most effective when highlighting a direct contrast or opposition between two separate subjects.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are set against" functions as a verb phrase indicating a relationship of opposition, contrast, or comparison between two or more entities. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it’s grammatically correct. This expression is widely used to highlight differences or conflicts as evident in the examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

84%

Academia

7%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are set against" is a versatile and commonly used expression to highlight contrast or opposition between different entities. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. It's frequently employed in news and media, as well as academic writing. When using this phrase, ensure the elements being contrasted are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "are opposed to" or "are contrasted with", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Avoid using the phrase when simply describing different aspects of a single entity rather than highlighting a direct conflict or comparison.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are contrasted with

Focuses on direct comparison showing differences.

are opposed to

Emphasizes direct resistance or disagreement.

are in conflict with

Highlights active disagreement and clashing of ideas.

are weighed against

Implies a careful consideration of opposing factors.

are balanced against

Suggests an attempt to equalize opposing forces or elements.

are juxtaposed with

Emphasizes placing items side by side for contrast.

are pitted against

Highlights direct competition or struggle.

stand in opposition to

Formal way of expressing direct contradiction.

are measured against

Suggests a comparison to evaluate worth or significance.

are compared with

General comparison, without necessarily implying conflict.

FAQs

How can I use "are set against" in a sentence?

The phrase "are set against" is used to show a contrast or opposition between two things. For example, "The benefits of the project "are set against" its potential risks".

What is a good alternative to "are set against"?

Alternatives to "are set against" include "are opposed to", "are contrasted with", or "are in conflict with". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "is set against" instead of "are set against"?

No, the verb form must agree with the subject. Use "is set against" for singular subjects and "are set against" for plural subjects. For example, "The idea is set against the norm" vs. "These ideas "are set against" each other".

What's the difference between "are set against" and "are compared to"?

"Are set against" implies a contrast or opposition, while "are compared to" simply suggests a comparison without necessarily implying conflict. For example, "The characters' values "are set against" each other" shows conflict, whereas "The characters "are compared to" mythological figures" suggests similarity.