set out to conquer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "set out to conquer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing someone's intention or goal to achieve dominance or success in a particular area or endeavor. Example: "The explorers set out to conquer the uncharted territories, driven by their thirst for adventure and discovery."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

Toyota set out to conquer the world.

The Washington Post

According to legend, it was from Viborg that King Canute set out to conquer England.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In 1533 he set out to conquer what is now Ecuador.

Encyclopedia Britannica

My friend Carol and I set out to conquer them on bicycles on a sunny morning.

The New York Times - Travel

Ms. Pawk didn't exactly set out to conquer Broadway, at least not immediately.

The New York Times

I wanted to set out to conquer the whole thing if I could".

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

It just struck me all of a sudden that she could be Charlotte, setting out to conquer New York society".

The New York Times

Before it sets out to conquer Broadway, this most unusual show needs careful editing and the touch of a Jerome Robbins or Bob Fosse.

The New York Times

But here's the problem with setting out to conquer a superlative: there's always someone lurking around the corner, drawing a target on your back.

The New York Times

We could rely only on a nation of six million inhabitants, hence the necessity of protecting our rear before setting out to conquer the universe.

The New York Times - Arts

Of course, no one sets out to conquer this particular corner of show business, and Mendez, who is fifty-six years old, took a circuitous route to it, but he does have real cue-card roots.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "set out to conquer", ensure that the context clearly defines what is being conquered, whether it's a physical territory, a market, or a personal challenge.

Common error

Avoid using "set out to conquer" for trivial or easily achievable goals. The word "conquer" implies a substantial challenge and significant effort.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set out to conquer" functions as a verb phrase indicating the initiation of an ambitious action with the explicit purpose of achieving dominance or overcoming significant challenges. As Ludwig AI suggests, the expression correctly conveys intent and purpose.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "set out to conquer" is a powerful verb phrase used to express a determined effort to achieve dominance or overcome significant challenges. As verified by Ludwig AI, this expression is grammatically sound and widely used across various contexts. The phrase is prevalent in News & Media and Encyclopedias, suggesting its relevance in describing ambitious undertakings and historical events. When employing "set out to conquer", it's essential to align the scale of the goal with the forceful connotation of the verb "conquer", avoiding its application to trivial pursuits. Alternatives like "aim to dominate" or "strive to overcome" offer nuanced variations for different contexts, offering writers flexibility in their diction.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

set out to overcome adversity

Specifically addresses the challenge of overcoming difficult circumstances.

embark on a mission to dominate

Emphasizes the beginning of a significant undertaking with the goal of domination.

aim to dominate

Focuses on the intention to achieve dominance, removing the initial action.

commence a campaign to triumph

Suggests a strategic and organized effort to achieve victory.

seek to dominate

Similar to 'aim to dominate' but implies a more active pursuit of dominance.

strive to overcome

Emphasizes the effort to surpass challenges, rather than outright conquest.

attempt to subdue

Indicates an effort to bring something or someone under control.

endeavor to vanquish

Highlights the attempt to decisively defeat an opponent or obstacle.

venture to subdue

Focuses on the risk and boldness associated with attempting to subdue.

aspire to master

Shifts the focus to achieving mastery and expertise in a particular field.

FAQs

How can I use "set out to conquer" in a sentence?

You can use "set out to conquer" to describe a determined and ambitious approach to achieving a significant goal. For example: "The company "set out to conquer" the global market with its innovative product."

What are some alternatives to "set out to conquer"?

Alternatives include "aim to dominate", "strive to overcome", or "endeavor to vanquish", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "set out to conquer" in a formal context?

Yes, "set out to conquer" is appropriate in formal contexts when describing a serious and ambitious undertaking. However, be mindful of the potential for overstatement; ensure the goal aligns with the forceful connotation of "conquer".

What is the difference between "set out to conquer" and "set out to achieve"?

"Set out to achieve" is a more general phrase indicating an intention to accomplish something. "Set out to conquer" implies a more forceful, ambitious, and challenging goal, often involving overcoming significant obstacles or opposition. The phrase "set out to achieve" doesn't have the connotation of dominance.