as we set

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as we set" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate actions or decisions being made in conjunction with a specific setting or context. Example: "As we set our goals for the upcoming year, it's important to consider our past achievements."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Travel

General Writing

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

As we set out, the skies darkened.

The New Yorker

'Safari!' jokes Yuriy, as we set off in pursuit.

The Guardian - Travel

As we set off I am beginning to think I might bond with the bike.

The Guardian - Travel

"As we set off for hospital, his finger rose and beckoned.

The Guardian

The Vopo continued to watch us through his binoculars as we set off.

The New Yorker

"See, this is all French granite," Monaghan said, indicating the pavement, as we set off again.

The New Yorker

The air was warm, the sky a sharp blue as we set off.

The New York Times - Travel

Just as we set off, news breaks that Milo has been suspended from Twitter.

The Guardian

"You're going to a Gap?" he'll exclaim as we set off. "You're crazy!

The New York Times

As we set off, I find myself taking special interest in the local flora.

The Guardian - Travel

Little Red Corvette belted as we set up the bar before a raging party.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider replacing "as we set" with alternatives like "as we begin" or "as we start" for a less formal tone, depending on the context.

Common error

Avoid using "as we set" when describing events that happen one after the other, rather than simultaneously. For instance, instead of "As we set the table, we ate dinner", use "After we set the table, we ate dinner".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as we set" functions as a subordinating conjunction, introducing a clause that provides context or describes a circumstance concurrent with the main action. Ludwig's examples show it often introduces a simultaneous action, such as "As we set off, the skies darkened."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Travel

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

7%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as we set" serves as a versatile subordinating conjunction that establishes a temporal or contextual relationship between two concurrent actions or states. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various reputable sources. While generally neutral in register, it is frequently found in news, travel writing, and formal business contexts. When writing, be mindful of using it for simultaneous events rather than sequential ones. Consider alternatives like "as we begin" or "as we start" for a less formal tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as we begin

A simpler, more direct alternative to 'as we set', suitable for most contexts.

when we start

A straightforward alternative, replacing 'as' with 'when' for temporal clarity.

as we initiate

Replaces 'set' with 'initiate', suggesting a more formal or deliberate start.

as we embark

Suggests starting a journey or endeavor, adding a sense of adventure.

as we commence

Implies a more formal and ceremonious beginning than "as we set".

as we prepare to

Highlights the preparatory stage before beginning an action.

upon starting

More concise and emphasizes the moment of beginning.

as we get underway

Suggests a process of becoming active or in motion.

in setting out

Emphasizes the act of arranging or preparing to begin.

while we establish

Focuses on the act of establishing something, rather than simply beginning.

FAQs

How can I use "as we set" in a sentence?

Use "as we set" to describe an action or state that occurs at the beginning of another activity. For example, "As we set out on our journey, the weather turned bad" indicates that the bad weather started when the journey began.

What can I say instead of "as we set"?

You can use alternatives like "as we begin", "as we start", or "when we begin" depending on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is it correct to say "as we set off"?

Yes, "as we set off" is a common and grammatically correct phrase. It means "as we start a journey or trip". For example, "As we set off, we realized we had forgotten the map".

What's the difference between "as we set" and "as we prepare"?

"As we set" typically indicates the moment of starting something, while "as we prepare" refers to the period of getting ready. For example, "As we set out, the adventure began", whereas "As we prepare for the trip, we made sure to pack everything we needed".