is set in motion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is set in motion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the initiation of an action or process. Example: "The project is set in motion after receiving the necessary approvals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Thus the plot is set in motion.

The New York Times - Books

The poverty cycle for these families is set in motion.

The Guardian

"Once a process is set in motion, let us not talk about solutions," he said.

The New York Times

Fittingly, the novel's plot is set in motion by a #MeToo moment avant la lettre.

The New Yorker

Once the plot is set in motion Pino Donaggio's score takes over.

The Guardian - Film

The story is set in motion when Michael is slated for release from prison.

The New York Times - Books

When the Marshals Service takes over a property, a well-practiced process is set in motion.

The New York Times

Some of the interesting chemistry of clusters is set in motion by light.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The entire story is set in motion by an act akin to Clinton's dalliance with Monica Lewinsky.

The New Yorker

Once the launch codes are entered, a chain of events is set in motion that is almost impossible to interrupt.

The New Yorker

Thus, in a mind-boggling and slightly James Bondish fashion, carefully orchestrated insect warfare is set in motion.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "is initiated" or "is triggered" to add nuance and avoid repetition, depending on the specific context of your writing.

Common error

While "is set in motion" is grammatically correct, overuse of the passive voice can make your writing sound less direct. Consider whether an active voice construction would be more impactful; for example, instead of "The plan is set in motion by the committee", you could write "The committee sets the plan in motion."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is set in motion" functions as a passive verb phrase. According to Ludwig, it's used to describe the initiation of an action or process. It highlights that something has been started or activated, leading to subsequent events or developments.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is set in motion" is a commonly used passive verb phrase indicating the commencement of a process or action. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. It's particularly prevalent in news and media, with applications also found in science and encyclopedic content. When writing, while the phrase is useful for describing the beginning of a process, it is important to be aware of overusing the passive voice in writing. Alternatives like "is initiated" or "is triggered" can provide more specific nuances depending on the context. The phrase's frequency and presence in authoritative sources highlight its general acceptance and utility in English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is initiated

Focuses on the formal commencement of a process.

is triggered

Implies a cause-and-effect relationship, where something activates a sequence of events.

is activated

Suggests that something is made functional or operational.

is started

A simpler, more direct way of saying something has begun.

is launched

Often used for projects, campaigns, or initiatives to convey a sense of purpose.

is commenced

A formal synonym for 'started', often used in legal or official contexts.

is underway

Indicates that a process has begun and is currently in progress.

is unleashed

Suggests a powerful or uncontrolled release of something.

is sparked

Indicates the beginning of something, usually an idea or event.

is set off

Implies that something causes a chain reaction or sequence of events.

FAQs

What does it mean when something "is set in motion"?

When something "is set in motion", it means that a process, event, or action has been initiated and is now underway. It implies that the initial step has been taken, and subsequent events are likely to follow.

What can I say instead of "is set in motion"?

You can use alternatives like "is initiated", "is triggered", or "is started" depending on the specific context.

How can I use "is set in motion" in a sentence?

You can use "is set in motion" to describe the beginning of a process. For example, "Once the agreement was signed, the project was set in motion". Or, "The rumor was set in motion by an anonymous source".

Is it better to use "is set in motion" or "sets in motion"?

The choice between "is set in motion" and "sets in motion" depends on whether you want to use the passive or active voice. "Is set in motion" (passive) focuses on the process, while "sets in motion" (active) focuses on the agent initiating the process. For example, "The new policy sets in motion a series of reforms" versus "A series of reforms is set in motion by the new policy".