be set against

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be set against" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate opposition or resistance to something, often in a context of conflict or disagreement. Example: "The community was set against the proposed development project due to environmental concerns."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Public opinion can easily be set against the civil activists".

The New York Times

Any developments here would be set against a national backdrop.

The New York Times

Those risks must be set against potentially huge prizes.

The Guardian

The returns to investment must be set against the disadvantage of having to wait.

The Economist

But they must be set against powerful negative forces especially a weakening labour market.

The Economist

The 2011 finals will be set against a backdrop of labor strife, and an expected lockout.

The New York Times - Sports

Nobody can agree on what these are, or on how capital should be set against them.

The Economist

We can't be set against business, and too many believed we were.

The Guardian

"We can't be set against the government's recent cut in corporation tax for the future.

The Guardian

Africa's few recent successes tend to be set against a previous history of disaster.

The Economist

No attack can be set against it, as it has already conquered itself.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be set against", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being opposed or contrasted. This prevents ambiguity and strengthens the statement's impact.

Common error

Avoid using "be set against" when simply describing a preference or choice. This phrase is best suited for situations involving conflict, contrast, or careful consideration of opposing factors.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be set against" functions as a prepositional phrase indicating a relationship of opposition, comparison, or backdrop. Ludwig examples show its role in contrasting ideas or framing events, as also confirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

12%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be set against" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to indicate opposition, contrast, or the provision of context. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English. Analysis of various sources reveals that it is most commonly found in News & Media, and Academia, suggesting a generally neutral register with a leaning towards formality. When using this phrase, it's crucial to ensure the context clearly indicates what is being opposed or contrasted. Avoid using it when simply describing a preference; instead, reserve it for situations involving genuine conflict or careful consideration of opposing factors.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be opposed to

Indicates direct opposition, similar to "be set against" but with a more straightforward tone.

be in contrast with

Highlights a difference or opposition when comparing two elements.

be juxtaposed with

Emphasizes placing two things side by side to highlight their differences.

be weighed against

Suggests a careful comparison of benefits and drawbacks.

be compared with

Implies an evaluation of similarities and differences between two things.

be considered in light of

Focuses on understanding something within a specific context.

be evaluated against

Stresses a formal assessment based on specific criteria.

be seen against the backdrop of

Highlights the context or circumstances surrounding an event or situation.

be understood in the context of

Stresses the importance of considering surrounding information for proper comprehension.

be viewed in relation to

Highlights a connection or interdependence between two elements.

FAQs

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

Use "be set against" to indicate opposition, where one thing is in conflict or contrast with another. For example, "The benefits of the project must "be set against" the potential environmental damage".

What's a formal alternative to "be set against"?

In formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "be opposed to" or "be in contrast with" to maintain a professional tone.

Is "be set against" the same as "be compared to"?

No, "be set against" implies opposition or contrast, while "be compared to" suggests evaluating similarities and differences without necessarily implying conflict.

When is it appropriate to use "be set against" rather than "be weighed against"?

"Be set against" is suitable for general opposition, while "be weighed against" specifically implies a careful balancing of competing factors or considerations.