set off without delay

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "set off without delay" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when indicating that someone or something should begin a journey or action immediately, without any waiting. Example: "As soon as the sun rises, we will set off without delay to reach our destination before nightfall."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Then I lace up my running shoes and set off without hesitating.

The New Yorker

He tends to set off without specific columns in mind, and without prior discussion with editors at the Times.

The New Yorker

"Basically me and Phil set off without Callum on our wheel.

BBC

This powder was then set off by a delayed-action detonating fuse, also Maxim's invention.

Britannica

The stampede was set off by railway delays, shoddy infrastructure and overcrowding, several witnesses said.

The New York Times

After a two-hour delay, another plane set off.

The New York Times

Eventually, we set off.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

We set off.

The New Yorker

Then we set off.

The New York Times - Travel

The boat set off.

The New Yorker

Set off.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "set off without delay" to emphasize urgency and immediate action, particularly in narratives or instructions where time is critical.

Common error

Avoid using "set off without delay" in casual conversation; it can sound overly formal. Opt for simpler phrases like "leave now" or "go immediately" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set off without delay" functions as a directive phrase, emphasizing the need for immediate action or departure. According to Ludwig, it indicates that something should start immediately, without waiting.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "set off without delay" signifies the immediate commencement of a journey or task, emphasizing the avoidance of any delays. Ludwig indicates that it is grammatically correct but relatively rare. While versatile, it's best suited for formal contexts where urgency is paramount. Alternatives include "leave immediately" or "depart at once", depending on the specific nuance required. Its directness and clarity make it effective for conveying a sense of urgency.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

start without any delay

Rephrases the original, but with slightly different word order.

leave immediately

A simple and direct way to say the same thing, avoiding the idiom.

depart at once

Emphasizes leaving a place without any waiting.

proceed without hesitation

Highlights the lack of doubt or pause before starting.

begin immediately

Focuses on the start itself, without specifying a journey.

commence immediately

A formal way of saying "start immediately".

get going right away

A more informal and conversational way to express immediate departure.

start forthwith

Uses a more formal and archaic term for "immediately".

kick off without hesitation

A more informal alternative to describe setting in motion a plan or activity.

initiate promptly

Suggests a formal beginning to a process or activity.

FAQs

How can I use "set off without delay" in a sentence?

You can use "set off without delay" to indicate the immediate commencement of a journey or task. For instance, "We must "depart at once" to reach our destination before nightfall."

What does "set off without delay" mean?

It means to start a journey or action immediately, without any waiting or procrastination. Similar to saying "begin immediately".

Are there any synonyms for "set off without delay"?

Yes, alternatives include "leave immediately", "depart at once", or "proceed without hesitation". The best choice depends on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "set off without delay"?

It is appropriate when emphasizing the need for immediate action and the avoidance of any delays. It suits formal or serious contexts where promptness is crucial.