set expectations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'set expectations' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the expectations that should be in place for a particular situation. For example: "It's important to set expectations for team members so that everyone is on the same page."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

'I set expectations simply too high.

The Guardian - Sport

"They will set expectations but not tip their hands.

The New York Times

It doesn't mean that you don't set expectations and standards.

The New York Times

"The trick is to set expectations early," he said.

The Guardian - Sport

"This set expectations in the community that have not materialised.

The Guardian

Trump has set expectations for the presidency extraordinarily high.

The Guardian

That is called trying to set expectations about expectations.

The New York Times

Please adjust your television set, expectations are scrolling.

The Guardian - Opinion

A simple amuse-bouche to open the palate and set expectations low.

The New Yorker

So Version 3.0 tried to marry the two and be tough but fair, and set expectations.

The New York Times

"When you set expectations and you explain reasons, satisfaction tends to improve," he said.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Always follow up after you "set expectations" to give team members the possibility to share feedback and ask questions.

Common error

Avoid "setting expectations" that are unrealistically high. This can lead to disappointment and erode trust. Instead, focus on transparency and achievable goals.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set expectations" functions primarily as a verb phrase. It describes the action of establishing or defining what is anticipated or required in a given situation. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples where the phrase is used to indicate the act of defining or communicating standards. Ludwig examples show that "set expectations" works in a wide variety of contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Formal & Business

27%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Academia

5%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "set expectations" is a versatile and frequently used verb phrase that describes the act of establishing or defining anticipated outcomes or standards. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable across various contexts, including news, business, and scientific domains. When using "set expectations", it's important to ensure they are realistic, achievable, and communicated clearly to avoid misunderstandings and promote alignment. Alternatives such as "establish expectations" or "define expectations" can be used depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establish expectations

Replaces "set" with "establish", emphasizing the creation and implementation of expectations.

define expectations

Uses "define" instead of "set", focusing on clarifying and specifying what is expected.

outline expectations

Emphasizes the detailed presentation of expectations, using "outline" in place of "set".

communicate expectations

Focuses on the act of conveying expectations clearly to others, using "communicate" instead of "set".

lay out expectations

Similar to "outline expectations", but with a more informal tone using the phrasal verb "lay out".

formulate expectations

Highlights the process of developing and articulating expectations, replacing "set" with "formulate".

specify requirements

Shifts the focus to concrete requirements rather than general expectations, with "specify" used to indicate precision.

establish guidelines

Implies setting a framework for behavior or performance, using "guidelines" to suggest a more flexible approach.

determine standards

Focuses on setting benchmarks for quality or performance, using "determine" to emphasize the establishment of standards.

create a framework

Suggests building a structure within which expectations are understood and managed; broader than simply "setting" them.

FAQs

How to use "set expectations" in a sentence?

You can use "set expectations" to describe the act of defining what is anticipated or required. For example, "It's crucial to set expectations clearly at the beginning of a project".

What can I say instead of "set expectations"?

You can use alternatives like "establish expectations", "define expectations", or "outline expectations" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "set expectations" or "setting expectations"?

"Set expectations" is often used as an imperative or infinitive, while "setting expectations" is the gerund form, suitable for use as a noun or in continuous tenses. Both are grammatically correct but serve different roles in a sentence. For example: It's important to set expectations vs. Setting expectations is crucial for success.

What's the difference between "set expectations" and "set requirements"?

"Set expectations" refers to establishing anticipated outcomes or standards, while "set requirements" focuses on defining specific criteria that must be met. Expectations are broader and encompass anticipated results, while requirements are specific and obligatory.