set at

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "set at" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is most commonly used to describe the amount or value of something. For example, "The price of the new laptop is set at $800."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Early set at Smalls.

The New York Times - Arts

The cryogenic chamber was set at -150F.

Independent

This tone is set at the top.

The New York Times

The league average is set at 15.0.

The New York Times

Bickford's bail was set at $2,000.

Independent

It has now been set at $14.

The New York Times

Bail was set at three hundred.

The New Yorker

The stakes were set at fifty dollars.

The New Yorker

Their horizon is set at Monday evening.

The New York Times - Sports

Bail was set at $1 million.

The New York Times

The sun starts to set at forty.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing measurements or values, ensure the unit of measurement is clearly stated alongside the value "set at". For example, "The temperature was set at 25 degrees Celsius."

Common error

Avoid using "set at" for abstract concepts where 'established' or 'defined' would be more appropriate. For instance, instead of saying "The goal was set at success", consider "The goal was established as success".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "set at" is a phrasal verb indicating the establishment or determination of a specific value, level, or time. This is supported by Ludwig's examples, showing usage in contexts such as prices, temperatures, and bail amounts. It serves to quantify or define a parameter.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "set at" is a common and grammatically correct phrasal verb used to indicate the establishment of a specific value, level, or time. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used across various contexts, including news, science, and general writing. While it maintains a neutral register, it's crucial to use it appropriately, avoiding its application to abstract concepts. Alternatives like "established at", "fixed at", and "valued at" may be more suitable depending on the context. Remember to clearly state the unit of measurement when describing values. With a high source quality score and expert rating, "set at" is a reliable and versatile phrase in the English language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

established at

Emphasizes the act of formally setting or fixing something at a particular value or point.

fixed at

Focuses on the idea of something being immovably set at a specific level.

pegged at

Suggests a strong and often artificial fixing of a value, commonly used in financial contexts.

adjusted to

Implies a modification to reach a specific setting.

calibrated to

Highlights the act of precisely adjusting something to a standard or desired level.

designated as

Focuses on the assignment of a specific role or value.

scheduled for

Specifies a planned time or event.

valued at

Indicates the assessed worth or price of something.

priced at

Specifically refers to the monetary cost of an item or service.

evaluated as

Suggests a more comprehensive assessment leading to a final determination.

FAQs

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

Use "set at" to indicate that a value, level, or time has been determined or established. For example, "The thermostat was set at 70 degrees", or "Bail was "set at" $50000".

What are some alternatives to "set at"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "established at", "fixed at", or "valued at". Choose the alternative that best fits the specific meaning you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "set at" and "adjusted to"?

"Set at" implies an initial setting or determination, while "adjusted to" suggests a modification to reach a specific setting. For example, you might "set" a price initially, but then "adjust" it based on market conditions.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "set at"?

Avoid using "set at" in contexts where you are describing abstract concepts or qualities. Instead, use alternatives like "defined as" or "considered to be". For instance, instead of saying "expectations were set at perfection," use "expectations were defined as perfection."