set free

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "set free" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation in which someone or something regains physical or mental freedom after having been restricted or restrained. For example, "After years in prison, the inmate was finally able to set free."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We were set free.

Independent

The sheik was set free.

The New York Times

Chile is set free.

The New Yorker

thus set free.

The Guardian - Books

Cyr be set free.

The New York Times

"I've been set free.

The Guardian - Music

Being set free.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

They could simply be set free.

The New York Times

Mr. Wang was eventually set free.

The New York Times

Set free for him, Sinkler knew.

The New Yorker

A male was set free in 2006.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "set free" when you want to emphasize the act of liberating someone or something from a state of captivity, constraint, or obligation. It is suitable for both literal and figurative contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "set free" interchangeably with phrases like "let off" or "get away with", which imply avoiding consequences rather than genuine liberation. "Set free" implies a release from a previous state of confinement or obligation, not simply escaping punishment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set free" functions primarily as a phrasal verb, indicating the act of releasing someone or something from captivity, restraint, or obligation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "set free" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrasal verb used to describe the act of liberation or release. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is a correct and usable phrase in written English. Its usage is prevalent in various contexts, particularly in news and media, though less frequent in highly formal or scientific writing. When aiming for a more formal tone, consider using synonyms like "liberate" or "release". While generally neutral in register, understanding its nuances helps in choosing the most appropriate word to convey the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

release

A single-word synonym that emphasizes the act of letting go.

liberate

Replaces the entire phrase with a single, more formal verb.

emancipate

Implies freeing someone from legal, social, or political constraints.

let go

An informal alternative, focusing on relinquishing control.

turn loose

Suggests a more casual or uncontrolled release.

unleash

Emphasizes the release of something powerful or previously restrained.

discharge

Often used in formal contexts like military or medical settings.

extricate

Focuses on freeing someone or something from a difficult situation.

deliver

Highlights the act of rescuing someone from danger or oppression.

acquit

Specifically refers to freeing someone from a legal charge or accusation.

FAQs

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

The phrase "set free" is versatile and can be used in various contexts. For example, "The political prisoners were "released" after the negotiations" or "She felt "liberated" from her responsibilities after resigning".

What are some alternatives to "set free"?

You can use alternatives such as "liberate", "release", "let go", or "emancipate" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "setted free" instead of "set free"?

No, "setted free" is grammatically incorrect. The past participle of "set" is "set", so the correct form is "set free".

What is the difference between "set free" and "release"?

While both "set free" and "release" imply liberation, "set free" often suggests a more deliberate or intentional act of freeing someone or something from confinement or bondage. "Release" can also refer to making something available or public.