be set on a

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be set on a" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is established or determined in a particular way or location. Example: "The project will be set on a firm timeline to ensure timely completion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

Many of the earlier first-round matches at the Open seemed to be set on a fast track — the first two featured women's matches took barely more than an hour — and that included No. 2 Rafael Nadal needing just 2 hours 6 minutes to rout Ryan Harrison, 6-4, 6-2, 6-2.

The New York Times - Sports

This can be set on a plaster slab to dry out a bit, and then reused.

WikiHow

Consider picking an item that will be of much use to her, preferably one that won't be set on a shelf and forgotten about.

WikiHow

When people think of a Vettriano, they probably think of one of these reproductions, which will be set on a beach, featuring people in elegant Forties or Fifties clothes, possibly with a maid or butler in tow.

The Guardian - Arts

The alerts can be set on a daily or weekly frequency.

The New York Times

But the government appears to be set on a watered-down version of his reform plan.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

The game is set on an almost oppressively picturesque island, sprinkled with some six hundred puzzles.

The New Yorker

In my mind's eye, the sun is setting on a beautiful hillside.

The Guardian - Travel

But they were set on doing a start-up.

Forbes

Could the sun be setting on a long tradition of Govan shipbuilding?

BBC

Both are set on a ground of ghost colors that echo the main ones.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To convey determination or a fixed intention with "be set on a", follow it with a noun or gerund. For instance, "She is set on a career in medicine."

Common error

A common mistake is to confuse the preposition following 'set'. While "be set on a" is correct for indicating placement or intention, other prepositions might be more appropriate depending on the intended meaning. For example, use "be set in" for a story's location or "be set for" for a scheduled event.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be set on a" functions primarily as a verb phrase combined with a prepositional phrase. It's used to express either a strong determination towards something or to indicate the placement of an object on a specific surface. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and varied usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Wiki

20%

Science

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be set on a" functions as a versatile expression used to convey a strong determination or intention, or to describe the physical placement of an object. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically sound and frequently used. Predominantly found in contexts such as News & Media and Wiki sources, it maintains a neutral register suitable for various writing styles. While alternatives like "be determined to" or "be located on" can substitute depending on the context, understanding the intended meaning ensures accurate usage. The key, as seen through Ludwig's examples, lies in considering whether the focus is on intent or location to select the best fit for your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be determined to

Focuses on the determination or intention to achieve something.

be intent on

Similar to 'determined', but emphasizes a strong focus or purpose.

be fixed on

Implies an unwavering focus or obsession.

be positioned on

Describes the physical placement or arrangement of something.

be located on

Indicates the geographical or spatial location of something.

be situated on

Similar to 'located on', but suggests a more permanent or established location.

be placed upon

Formal way to express something is put or set on something else.

be arranged on

Describes the orderly or deliberate placement of items.

be configured for

Focuses on how something is prepared or designed for a specific purpose.

be predisposed to

Suggests a natural inclination or tendency towards something.

FAQs

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

You can use "be set on a" to indicate determination, as in "She is set on a new career", or to describe placement, such as "The sculpture will be set on a pedestal".

What does it mean when someone is "set on a" goal?

When someone is "set on a" goal, it means they are firmly determined to achieve it and are not easily swayed from their objective. It indicates a strong intention and focus.

Are there alternatives to saying "be set on a"?

Yes, depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "be determined to", "be intent on", or "be fixed on" to convey a similar meaning of strong intention. For placement, consider "be located on".

Is it correct to say "be set in a" instead of "be set on a"?

The correct preposition depends on the context. "Be set on a" usually indicates determination or placement on a surface. "Be set in a" is used for settings, such as a story being set in a particular location or time period. Make sure to check your sentence and use case to determine the correct preposition.