set out for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "set out for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe the beginning of a journey or the process of starting something. For example: We set out for our vacation early this morning. OR We set out for this project with determination and enthusiasm.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

City Room set out for answers.

The New York Times

I set out for Ramallah.

The New York Times - Magazine

Ms. Champagne, instead, set out for Manhattan.

The New York Times

We set out for the nearest ridge.

The New York Times - Travel

— and set out for the 16th Arrondissement.

The New York Times - Travel

Didn't go homebut set out for veterinary.

The New Yorker

I thought I had everything set out for me.

The New York Times

"This is not what we set out for.

The New York Times

They set out for America (hence the ocean liner).

The New York Times - Books

Fresh baked cookies had been set out for our arrival.

The New York Times

The ship set out for Haiti Tuesday evening.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "set out for" when you want to clearly indicate the commencement of a journey or the beginning of a directed effort towards a specific destination.

Common error

While "set out for" is excellent for physical destinations, it can sound awkward when used for abstract goals. Instead of saying "We set out for success", try "We aimed for success" or "We pursued success".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set out for" primarily functions as a phrasal verb, indicating the commencement of a journey or a focused effort toward a specific destination. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's correctly used in written English. It also means to start a journey or activity with a particular aim or intention.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "set out for" is a phrasal verb used to describe the start of a journey or a directed effort, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It is grammatically correct and commonly used in various contexts, particularly in news and media, encyclopedias, and wiki articles. While versatile, it's best suited for describing concrete movements or actions, rather than abstract goals. Alternatives such as "departed for" or "headed towards" can provide subtle nuances in meaning. With a neutral register and broad applicability, "set out for" remains a reliable and effective phrase for conveying the commencement of a journey or a directed pursuit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

departed for

Replaces "set out" with a more formal verb indicating the commencement of travel.

headed towards

Indicates direction and movement toward a specific location.

started towards

Emphasizes the beginning of movement in a particular direction.

made their way to

Suggests progress and effort in reaching a destination.

embarked on a journey to

Adds a sense of adventure and formality to the start of a trip.

aimed to go to

Highlights the intention or goal of reaching a place.

took off for

Implies a quick or sudden departure.

launched an expedition to

Frames the act as a more formal and organized undertaking.

commenced travel to

Uses formal language to indicate the start of a journey.

started a journey to

Highlights the inception of an adventure.

FAQs

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

You can use "set out for" to describe the beginning of a journey or a directed effort. For instance, "They "set out for" the mountains early in the morning" or "She "set out for" a career in medicine".

What are some alternatives to "set out for"?

Alternatives include "departed for", "headed towards", or "started towards", depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "set out for" and "set off for"?

"Set out for" and "set off for" are quite similar, both indicating the start of a journey. "Set off for" often implies a more immediate or abrupt departure, while ""set out for"" can suggest a more planned or deliberate start.

Can "set out for" be used metaphorically?

Yes, ""set out for"" can be used metaphorically to describe the beginning of a project, career, or any other significant undertaking. For example, "He "set out for" a new chapter in his life".