it sets off

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of the sentence "it sets off" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used as an idiom to mean "to cause to stand out, be distinct, or be noticed". For example, "Her fiery red hair sets her off from the crowd."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

After it moults into its last instar, it sets off wandering to seek a female.

Wikipedia

When the Volvo senses that its driver is about to nod off, it sets off a gong and some dashboard lights.

Forbes

It sets off alarms".

The New York Times

It's a quiet moment, but it sets off widening ripples.

The New York Times

— it sets off all the parental alarm bells.

The New Yorker

To this day it sets off security alarms.

The Guardian

The experience, with the metabolic changes it sets off, is a simulacrum of dying.

The New Yorker

And in Trumbull, it sets off at 10 a.m. from Town Hall, 5866 Main Street.

The New York Times - Arts

There has to be a finish so big it sets off a tsunami of second-guessing.

The New York Times - Arts

It sets off no fireworks, but it's homey, well balanced and satisfying.

The New York Times

When that happens it sets off a cascade of reactions spurring growth.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it sets off" to describe the beginning of a chain reaction or a series of events, especially when emphasizing the initial trigger.

Common error

Avoid using "it sets off" excessively in passive voice. Instead, focus on active constructions to clearly identify the subject that initiates the action. For example, prefer "The alarm sets off the sprinkler system" over "The sprinkler system is set off by the alarm".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it sets off" functions as a verb phrase that describes the action of initiating or triggering something. It describes a cause-and-effect relationship, where 'it' is the cause, and 'sets off' implies the beginning of a subsequent action or series of actions. Ludwig confirms the proper usage of this idiom.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it sets off" is a common idiomatic expression used to describe the action of initiating or triggering a sequence of events. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It is versatile and appears frequently in news and media, formal business contexts, and even in encyclopedic and scientific writings. While the phrase is acceptable in many writing styles, one should avoid overusing it in passive constructions to maintain clarity and strength. Consider alternatives such as "it triggers" or "it initiates" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it triggers

Focuses more on the direct causation or activation of something.

it initiates

Emphasizes the beginning or starting point of a process or event.

it causes

Highlights the direct relationship between an action and its result.

it sparks

Suggests a sudden or energetic beginning, often implying excitement or conflict.

it provokes

Implies a reaction or response, often negative or controversial.

it generates

Focuses on the creation or production of something as a result.

it gives rise to

Indicates that something leads to or creates the conditions for something else.

it leads to

Shows a sequence of events where one thing directly influences another.

it brings about

Emphasizes the action of causing something to occur or exist.

it sets in motion

Focuses on the commencement of a series of actions or events.

FAQs

How can I use "it sets off" in a sentence?

"It sets off" is used to indicate that something triggers or initiates a series of events. For example, "The loud noise it sets off a chain of reactions". The phrase is versatile and can be used in various contexts to describe cause and effect.

What's the difference between "it sets off" and "it triggers"?

While both phrases imply causation, "it sets off" often suggests a more complex or extended series of events following the initial trigger. "It triggers" typically refers to a more direct and immediate effect.

What are some alternatives to "it sets off"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "it initiates", "it causes", or "it sparks" to convey a similar meaning.

Is "it sets off" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "it sets off" is generally acceptable in both formal and informal writing. However, for highly formal or technical contexts, consider using more precise language, such as "it gives rise to" or "it leads to", for clarity.