set down

USAGE SUMMARY

"set down" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are writing about a person or object being placed from a higher location to a lower location, or in the figurative sense when something is written or expressed. Example: She carefully set down the plate of food on the table.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Groundskeepers set down mulch.

The New Yorker

He set down his Scotch.

The New Yorker

Ilona set down the tray.

The New Yorker

Immediately Lenin set down a novel strategy.

Encyclopedia Britannica

I set down the confused cracker offering.

The New Yorker

He set down his handheld technology.

The New Yorker

"We must set down methods and rules.

The New York Times - Arts

He set down two questions.

The Guardian

She set down her sack.

The New Yorker

I set down my criteria.

The Guardian - Arts

She set down the basket.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "set down" to mean 'establish' or 'ordain', ensure the context clearly indicates a formal or authoritative action. For instance, "The committee set down the rules for the competition."

Common error

Avoid using "set down" interchangeably with "put down" in all contexts. While they can both refer to physical placement, "set down" often implies a more careful or deliberate action.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set down" primarily functions as a phrasal verb. It combines the verb 'set' with the particle 'down' to create a meaning that is different from the individual words. Ludwig AI indicates its correct usage for actions such as placing something or recording information.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

22%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "set down" is a versatile phrasal verb with multiple meanings, primarily used to describe placing something carefully or recording information. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts. While grammatically correct and very common, it's important to consider the specific context to avoid confusion with similar phrases like "put down". As evidenced by Ludwig's examples, the phrase is frequently found in news and media, as well as wiki sources. Being aware of these nuances will help writers use "set down" effectively and appropriately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

put down

This is the most direct synonym, maintaining the same structure and meaning of physically placing something.

place

This alternative replaces the phrasal verb with a single, more general verb for putting something somewhere.

write down

This alternative specifically refers to the act of writing something down, clarifying the mode of recording.

note down

Similar to "write down", but implies a more concise form of recording information.

jot down

This suggests a quick and informal way of writing something down.

record

This alternative focuses on the aspect of writing or documenting something, shifting the meaning from physical placement to information capture.

establish

This alternative emphasizes the meaning of setting rules or guidelines, rather than a physical act.

prescribe

This emphasizes the action of formally setting down a rule or instruction.

land

This alternative is applicable when referring to aircrafts.

stipulate

Similar to "prescribe", but carries a stronger legal or contractual connotation.

FAQs

How do I use "set down" in a sentence?

You can use "set down" to describe the action of placing something gently, like "She "set down" the vase on the table". It can also mean to record something in writing, as in "He "set down" his thoughts in a journal".

What can I say instead of "set down"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "place", "record", "establish", or "write down".

Is it correct to say "set down" instead of "put down"?

In many cases, yes. Both phrases can mean to place something. However, "set down" can sometimes imply a more careful or formal action than "put down".

When should I use "set down" versus "write down"?

"Set down" can be used in a broader sense to mean 'record', while "write down" specifically refers to recording something in writing. Choose "write down" when you want to emphasize the act of writing.