set off

USAGE SUMMARY

"set off" is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it to indicate the beginning of something or to describe a separation of two things. For example: "The firework display was set off by the mayor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Set off the fireworks.

The New Yorker

Others set off fireworks.

Independent

It set off alarms.

The New York Times

That set off sparks.

The New York Times

Emergency exits set off alarms.

The New Yorker

Nelson set off in pursuit.

Encyclopedia Britannica

We set off for Chicago.

The New York Times - Sports

"It set off a wave".

The New York Times - Sports

Its transmissibility set off alarms.

The New York Times - Health

We set off down.

The Guardian - Travel

It also set off bedlam.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "set off" to mean 'begin a journey', specify the destination or purpose for clarity. For example, "They set off for the mountains early in the morning" is clearer than "They set off early in the morning".

Common error

Avoid using "set off" interchangeably with similar phrasal verbs like "set up" or "set out" if the intended meaning is to 'arrange' or 'display', which is different than initiating a journey or triggering an event.

How to use

Learn how to use "set off" with practical examples and tips.

How to use

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "set off" primarily functions as a verb indicating the commencement of a journey or the initiation of an action or event. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and versatile use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

7%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "set off" is a versatile term primarily used to denote starting a journey or triggering an event. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable. While it appears most frequently in news and media, its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse contexts. To ensure clarity, specify destinations when referring to journeys and avoid confusion with similar phrasal verbs. By understanding its nuances and appropriate usage, you can effectively incorporate "set off" into your writing and speech.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

begin the journey

Focuses on the commencement of a trip or expedition, emphasizing the action of starting.

embark on a trip

Highlights the act of starting a journey or adventure with enthusiasm.

commence the voyage

Emphasizes the start of a sea journey or long trip, adding a sense of adventure.

start the expedition

Focuses specifically on the beginning of an organized journey for a particular purpose.

depart for

Emphasizes the act of leaving a place to go to another, often a formal term.

initiate the process

Highlights the action of starting a procedure or sequence of events.

trigger the event

Implies causing an event to start, often with a sense of immediacy or consequence.

kick off

An informal way to say 'begin' or 'start', often used for events or projects.

spark

Implies initiating or causing something, particularly a reaction or event.

activate

Suggests putting something into action or making it functional.

FAQs

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

You can use "set off" to mean 'begin a journey' as in, "We "set off" early in the morning". It can also mean 'to cause something to happen' as in, "The alarm "set off" a chain of events".

What are some alternative phrases for "set off" when referring to starting a journey?

Alternatives include "begin the journey", "embark on a trip", or "depart for", depending on the context and desired formality.

What's the difference between "set off" and "trigger" when talking about causing an event?

"Set off" implies initiating a series of events or reactions, while "trigger" suggests a more immediate and direct cause-and-effect relationship. The phrase "trigger the event" often refers to a single, specific action causing a specific outcome.

Is it correct to say "set off" when referring to causing an alarm to sound?

Yes, it is correct. For example, "The smoke "set off" the fire alarm". This usage of "set off" means to cause the alarm to start sounding.