set a course

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "set a course" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when someone is making a plan or goal for the future. For example, "We need to set a course for success if we are going to achieve our goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

She also set a course record with this victory.

The New York Times

A few carriers, however, have set a course for sustainability.

The New York Times

Her countryman Robert Cheruiyot set a course record.

The New York Times

Instead of drifting along toward tragedy, we will set a course toward safety.

Independent

Instead, we set a course for Crow Rock Lodge, on the western side of the lake.

The New York Times - Travel

Scott shot a 66, and Bradley's 63 set a course record.

The New York Times - Sports

Over all, he must set a course for growth even as he shrinks the company.

The New York Times

We have set a course to develop our human capital and our infrastructure.

The New York Times

I do not "set a course for adventure, my mind on a new romance".

The Guardian - Travel

Two days earlier, he set a course record with a 63.

The New York Times - Sports

Others said the declaration was important at least symbolically and could set a course for action.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "set a course", ensure the context clearly defines the goal or destination. Be specific about what the course is leading towards to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "set a course" in contexts where a literal, physical course is not implied if your intention is figurative. If describing a physical journey, it is appropriate; otherwise, ensure the reader understands the idiomatic intention.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set a course" functions as a verb phrase, often used idiomatically. As Ludwig AI indicates, it suggests establishing a plan or direction. Examples from Ludwig show it used in contexts ranging from business strategies to personal goals, indicating a deliberate intention.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Formal & Business

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "set a course" is a widely used idiomatic expression signifying the establishment of a plan or direction, suitable for various contexts from news and media to formal business communications. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. When using this phrase, clarity in defining the intended goal is paramount to avoid ambiguity. Be mindful of the potential for misinterpretation between literal and figurative meanings. Alternatives like "establish a plan" or "chart a path" can provide nuanced variations. With a neutral register and frequent occurrence, "set a course" remains a versatile and effective expression for conveying intentionality and strategic planning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

chart a path

Emphasizes the creation of a detailed route or plan.

establish a plan

Focuses on the creation of a plan, omitting the directional aspect of a course.

lay out a strategy

Highlights the strategic aspect of planning a course of action.

define a direction

Focuses on establishing a general direction, lacking the detailed planning implied in setting a course.

formulate a policy

Implies a more formal and structured approach to setting a course, often used in organizational contexts.

make a decision

Highlights the act of deciding on a specific action or direction.

design a project

Emphasizes the act of designing something with a defined purpose and goal.

outline an approach

Focuses on providing a general overview or framework, rather than a detailed plan.

devise a scheme

Implies a more inventive or strategic approach to creating a plan, often with a specific objective.

set the stage

Describes preparing a situation for something to happen, less direct than taking action.

FAQs

How can I use "set a course" in a sentence?

You can use "set a course" to describe establishing a plan or direction for the future. For example, "The company "set a course" for expansion into new markets".

What's a good alternative to "set a course"?

Alternatives include "establish a plan", "chart a path", or "define a direction", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "set a course" formal or informal?

"Set a course" is appropriate for both formal and informal contexts. Its suitability largely depends on the surrounding language and the specific situation.

What does it mean to "set a course" for success?

To "set a course" for success means to create a detailed plan and take deliberate steps to achieve a desired outcome. It suggests a proactive and strategic approach to achieving goals.