set in motion the mechanism

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "set in motion the mechanism" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the initiation of a process or system, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "The new policy will set in motion the mechanism for change within the organization."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Jenson (2009, p. 42) maintains that although the social investment perspective may have served to move childcare policy forward during the Liberal years, it is also "the culprit that set in motion the social mechanism of writing women out" of the childcare story.

International Journal of Child Care and Education Policy

Franklin D. Roosevelt set in motion the U.S. atomic-bomb project.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Thus set in motion, the poem evolves into increasing discomfort.

The Guardian - Books

The hit set in motion the three-run burst.

The New York Times

And that set in motion the normal procedure.

Huffington Post

Therefore it is possible that BCSCs set in motion such mechanisms to counteract ROS.

Cell Death and Disease

Thus, the mechanism, once set in motion inside the nail's lumen, turns the threaded rod by converting the translational movement of the traction wire.

Strategies in Trauma and Limb Reconstruction

This result suggests that the energy dissipation mechanisms set in motion within the chloroplast during winter hardening were effective.

BMC Plant Biology

The inhibition of RNAP interactions with single-stranded segments of the transcription bubble by gp2 is a novel effect, which may occur via allosteric mechanism that is set in motion by the gp2 binding to the β′ jaw.

Journal of Molecular Biology

Rugunda said that capturing Kony alive would set in motion a "full accountability mechanism" in which the world would get to know how it came to be that Kony committed the many crimes he is accused of.

Huffington Post

The mechanism of life may be set in motion by our genes, as the mechanism of football is set in motion by our feet, but the feelings we acquire are unique to our own weird walk through time.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "set in motion the mechanism" when you want to emphasize the initiation of a series of actions or processes that are part of a larger system. It's particularly effective when describing complex or interconnected events.

Common error

Avoid using "set in motion the mechanism" in very simple or straightforward situations where a simpler verb like 'start' or 'begin' would be more appropriate. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex or pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "set in motion the mechanism" is to act as a verbal phrase that signifies the initiation of a process, system, or series of events. Ludwig AI confirms its usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "set in motion the mechanism" is a phrase used to describe the initiation of a process or system, typically implying a degree of complexity or interconnectedness. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct and finds its usage across diverse contexts, particularly in science, news, and formal business settings. While versatile, it's important to consider the level of formality required and avoid overuse in simple situations. Alternatives such as "trigger the process" or "initiate the system" can offer more direct or context-specific options.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Trigger the process

This alternative uses a more direct and active verb, emphasizing the initiation itself.

Initiate the system

This alternative is more formal and focuses on starting a structured or organized system.

Activate the process

This alternative suggests bringing a dormant or inactive process into operation.

Set off the chain of events

This alternative emphasizes the sequential and consequential nature of the events that follow the initiation.

Start the machinery

This alternative uses a more metaphorical expression, highlighting the complex and interconnected nature of the system being initiated.

Unleash the mechanism

This alternative implies releasing a powerful or uncontrollable force.

Kick-start the process

This alternative suggests giving an initial boost to a process that may be slow or stagnant.

Get the ball rolling

This alternative is an informal idiom for starting an activity or process.

Launch the procedure

This alternative is more formal and suggests a carefully planned and executed beginning.

Put in place the means

This alternative focuses on the establishment of resources necessary for an outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "set in motion the mechanism" in a sentence?

You can use "set in motion the mechanism" to describe the initiation of a complex series of actions or processes. For example: 'The new policy will "set in motion the mechanism" for change within the organization'.

What are some alternatives to "set in motion the mechanism"?

Alternatives include "trigger the process", "initiate the system", or "activate the process". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis.

Is "set in motion the mechanism" formal or informal?

"Set in motion the mechanism" is generally considered a formal phrase, suitable for professional, academic, or technical writing. In more casual settings, simpler alternatives may be preferable.

What's the difference between "set in motion the mechanism" and "start the process"?

"Set in motion the mechanism" implies initiating a complex, often interconnected system, while "start the process" is a more general term for beginning any series of actions. The former suggests a higher degree of complexity and interconnectedness.