set him free

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "set him free" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is being released from captivity, restrictions, or obligations. Example: "After years of imprisonment, the judge finally decided to set him free."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

That set him free.

The New Yorker

The guitar set him free.

Independent

The judge's ruling could set him free.

The New York Times

A judge just set him free.

The Washington Post

"I wanted to set him free".

The New York Times - Arts

"Federal court can set him free today".

The New Yorker

We may then set him free or enjoin his prosecution.

Cornell University

His captor eventually agreed and set him free.

The Economist

The nonprofit at George Washington University helped set him free.

The Washington Post

So they set him free -- or not quite free!

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

But he says Islam "set [him] free".

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "set him free" when you want to emphasize the act of liberation or release, whether from physical captivity, emotional constraints, or obligations. It's versatile and applicable in many narrative and descriptive contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "set him free" when a more specific term is appropriate. For example, use "acquit him" in legal contexts rather than the more general "set him free".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set him free" functions primarily as a verb phrase. It describes the action of releasing someone from confinement, obligation, or any form of restriction. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples showing its use in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Academia

16%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Science

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "set him free" is a grammatically sound and versatile verb phrase used to describe the act of releasing someone from confinement, obligation, or restriction. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent usage in various contexts, including News & Media, Academia, and Wiki. While alternatives like "release him" or "liberate him" exist, "set him free" is often preferred for its emphasis on the act of liberation. When using this phrase, ensure the context aligns with the intended scope of freedom, and consider more specific terms like "acquit him" in legal settings. The phrase's neutral register makes it appropriate for a wide range of writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

release him

A more direct and common synonym for setting someone free from physical confinement.

liberate him

Suggests a broader sense of freedom, often from oppression or control.

let him go

Can imply releasing someone from a physical hold or from an obligation.

grant him freedom

More formal and emphasizes the act of bestowing freedom.

allow him to leave

Focuses on permitting departure from a place or situation.

unshackle him

Implies removing physical restraints or metaphorical bonds.

discharge him

Often used in legal or military contexts, referring to official release.

acquit him

Specifically refers to clearing someone of charges in a legal setting.

exonerate him

Implies clearing someone of blame or wrongdoing.

free him from his obligations

More specific, indicating release from duties or responsibilities.

FAQs

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

You can use "set him free" in sentences like: "The judge decided to "set him free" after reviewing the evidence", or "Her forgiveness "set him free" from years of guilt".

What can I say instead of "set him free"?

You can use alternatives like "release him", "liberate him", or "let him go" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "set him free" or "free him"?

Both ""set him free"" and "free him" are grammatically correct and widely used, but ""set him free"" often carries a stronger emphasis on the act of liberation or decision to release someone.

What's the difference between "set him free" and "exonerate him"?

"Set him free" implies a general release from captivity or obligation, while "exonerate him" specifically means to clear someone of blame or wrongdoing, often in a legal context.