set out early

USAGE SUMMARY

"set out early" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to convey that one should begin something sooner than later or leave earlier than normal. For example, "We decided to set out early so that we would have plenty of time for our hike."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Travel

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

We set out early, strapping the sleeping kids into car seats.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"He set out early on to make his mark and nothing was going to stop him".

The New York Times

They set out early the next morning, juddering over potholed roads overlooking a shimmering river valley.

The Washington Post

Couples set out early on weekend mornings on expeditions to look for these notices.

The Guardian

To do so, the plan for 2013 must be set out early.

The Guardian - Opinion

The two set out early on the morning of May 29, reaching the South Summit by 9 00 am.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

As I have said, it was meant in a conciliatory and friendly way in the context in which I have used the word throughout my life and as set out earlier in this Statement".

The Guardian - Sport

To accomplish objectives of the review set out earlier, this section presents the application of clustering approach to a real case study.

Human-centric Computing and Information Sciences

The methods we employ are designed to create an explanatory bridge between the three conceptual frameworks set out earlier and the research questions specified in the concluding paragraph of the introduction.

Comparative Migration Studies

However, as set out earlier, one of the current research objectives is the comparison of different types of K-braced configurations of the shear walls, which would necessitate using identical cyclic amplitudes for different walls.

International Journal of Advanced Structural Engineering (IJASE)

In other words, as set out earlier, we believe that these green patients might have been upcoded.

BMC Health Services Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "set out early" to emphasize the advantage gained by starting something sooner, such as completing a task efficiently or avoiding delays.

Common error

Avoid using "set out early" when simply referring to starting a task; it's best when highlighting the benefit of beginning sooner than expected. If there's no advantage gained, a simpler phrase like "start early" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set out early" functions as a phrasal verb, indicating the commencement of a journey or task before the usual or expected time. Ludwig AI confirms that it is a correct and usable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

16%

Travel

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "set out early" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrasal verb that means to begin a journey or task sooner than expected. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for various contexts, especially in news and media, science, and travel. The examples provided by Ludwig illustrate that it is often used to emphasize the advantage gained by starting ahead of schedule. While the phrase is versatile, it's important to ensure it aligns with the context, focusing on the benefits of an early start rather than a simple indication of beginning a task. Alternatives such as "begin early", "start ahead of time", and "depart early" can be used to fine-tune the message depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

begin early

Replaces "set out" with a more general term for starting, slightly reducing the sense of embarking on a journey.

start ahead of time

Focuses on the timing aspect, emphasizing the act of beginning before the expected time.

depart early

Specifically relates to leaving a place sooner than planned, suitable for travel contexts.

make an early start

Emphasizes the effort and intention to begin early, adding a sense of purpose.

get going early

More informal, suggesting a quick and prompt beginning of an activity or journey.

kick off early

Adds an element of enthusiasm and initiative to starting early, typically used in project or event contexts.

commence early

More formal and emphasizes the start of a longer or more structured activity.

launch early

Suggests a strong and decisive start, often used in business or project management contexts.

get underway early

Focuses on the process of starting and progressing smoothly, usually related to journeys or projects.

set forth at dawn

Implies a very early start, often with connotations of adventure or a fresh beginning.

FAQs

What does "set out early" mean?

"Set out early" means to begin a journey or task sooner than planned or expected, often to gain an advantage such as avoiding traffic or having more time.

How can I use "set out early" in a sentence?

You can use "set out early" in a sentence like, "We decided to "set out early" to avoid the rush hour traffic."

What can I say instead of "set out early"?

You can use alternatives like "begin early", "start ahead of time", or "depart early" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "set out early in the morning"?

Yes, it is correct to say "set out early in the morning". It simply reinforces the idea of starting both early in terms of the task and the time of day.