set off on a journey

USAGE SUMMARY

"set off on a journey" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to the beginning of a physical journey, such as traveling to a different destination. For example: "The couple set off on a journey to explore the world and experience different cultures."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

Three years ago, Opportunity — which had already far outlived its original mission — set off on a journey that no one was confident it would complete.

The New York Times - Science

After the rodent agrees to be her guide, the pair set off on a journey that takes them through the troglod market (where one can buy various lost goods and detritus from "Above"), Live Forest, the River of Knowledge and finally to the spindlers' nests, where Liza must test her mettle against the evil ruling queen.

The New York Times - Books

The pair then set off on a journey to find out exactly what happened to them.

The Guardian - Film

Reporters and curious tweeters alike set off on a journey to find the source of the purported ostrich coat.

The Washington Post

Earlier this year, I set off on a journey that took me around the world without any luggage.

The Guardian - Travel

To write a poem is to set off on a journey into the unknown, and the excitement often lies in discovering what the poem is about.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

It is every parent's nightmare: a normally reliable child sets off on a journey, then vanishes without a trace.

The New York Times

She sets off on a journey in the footsteps of some watercolourists – some very famous, others less so – to big up the water-based medium.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

If she is a character written by Howard Barker and played by the incomparable Jan Maxwell, she sets off on a journey to collect the pieces, no matter what that trip might do to her.

The New York Times

Bored, disaffected young Milo receives a mysterious present – a purple tollbooth – and sets off on a journey through Dictionopolis and Digitopolis, cities at war in the Kingdom of Wisdom which has banished the Princesses of Rhyme and Reason.

The Guardian - Books

A young woman about to become a nun in 1960s Poland discovers she was born Jewish and – in the company of a depressed, drunk judge – sets off on a journey to discover the truth.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Vary your language. While "set off on a journey" is appropriate, consider using alternatives like "embark on a voyage" or "begin a quest" to add nuance and avoid repetition in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "set off on a journey" excessively in a single piece of writing. While appropriate, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive and predictable. Opt for synonyms like "embark on a voyage" or "begin a quest" for better impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set off on a journey" primarily functions as a verbal phrase indicating the commencement of travel or a significant undertaking. Ludwig examples show its use in describing both literal and figurative journeys.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Academia

15%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "set off on a journey" is a grammatically sound phrase widely used to describe the start of a trip or significant endeavor. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. Appearing frequently in News & Media and Academic contexts, the phrase carries a slightly formal tone. Consider alternatives like "embark on a voyage" or "begin a quest" to avoid repetition. Remember to use it thoughtfully to add impact to your writing, focusing on the initial stage of travels or projects.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

embark on a voyage

Replaces "journey" with "voyage", suggesting a longer or more significant trip.

take off on an adventure

Replaces "journey" with "adventure", highlighting the excitement and unpredictability of the trip.

begin a quest

Emphasizes a challenging or adventurous journey with a specific goal.

initiate a quest

Suggests the beginning of a challenging undertaking.

commence a pilgrimage

Suggests a journey with religious or spiritual significance.

start an expedition

Implies a journey undertaken for exploration or research.

undertake a tour

Focuses on a planned and structured trip, often for leisure or sightseeing.

hit the road

An informal way to say "start traveling", usually by car.

take to the road

Synonymous to "hit the road" in terms of meaning and informality.

launch a venture

Shifts the focus from physical travel to starting a new project or business.

FAQs

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

"Set off on a journey" is used to describe the commencement of travel or a significant undertaking. For example: "They "set off on a journey" to explore the Amazon rainforest."

What are some alternatives to "set off on a journey"?

Alternatives include "embark on a voyage", "begin a quest", or "start an expedition", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is "set off on a journey" formal or informal?

"Set off on a journey" is considered relatively formal. In more casual contexts, you might use phrases like "hit the road" or "take off".

What is the difference between "set off on a journey" and "go on a trip"?

"Set off on a journey" suggests a more significant and possibly longer trip than "go on a trip". A "journey" often implies purpose and potential challenges, while a "trip" can be a simple excursion.