set phrases

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "set phrases" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to fixed expressions or idiomatic phrases that are commonly used in a language. Example: "In learning a new language, it's important to familiarize yourself with set phrases that are frequently used in conversation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

Descriptions were heaps of hyperbolic adjectives and set phrases, a murky torrent.

The New Yorker

Better still, Babylon is capable of translating completely novel sentences, rather than being limited to only a couple of hundred set phrases, as with the earlier systems.It is still far from perfect, says Dr Black.

The Economist

Delegates quoted set phrases from the speech, entitled "Build a Well-Off Society in an All-Around Way and Create a New Situation in Building Socialism With Chinese Characteristics".

The New York Times

Homey, from Dutch developers Athom, hopes to pull it all together by allowing you to talk to your home; you can set phrases that let you control your lights, music and TV.

The Guardian - Tech

At about quarter to seven, for instance, he was downstairs on the sitting-room carpet trying to assemble a plastic robot that turned into a car and also into a gun and uttered set phrases through a speaker box and could also be operated by remote control.

The New Yorker

Struck dumb and communicating through set phrases in his notebook - 'I'm sorry, this is the smallest I've got'; 'Thank you, but I'm about to burst'; 'Help'; 'Ha ha ha!' - as well as 'yes' and 'no' tattooed on his hands, Thomas had hoped he could reconstruct his first love in her sibling, and Oskar's grandmother did her best to oblige; he left her just before Oskar's father was born.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

The titulature, introduced by a set phrase found on 13th- and 14th-century royal objects, glorifies the sultan in traditional bombastic eulogies.

The New York Times - Arts

"It's a set phrase," my chief editor explained.

Vice

Her adult life has been marked by constant war, so much so that "defeating the terrorists" is little more than a set phrase she rolls her eyes at.

Huffington Post

Granger argues that the books do not promote the occult because none of the magic is based on summoning any sort of demon or spirit; he contrasts occult invocational magic (calling up spirit beings to do your bidding) with literature's common incantational magic (saying a set phrase to use power from an unspecified source).

Wikipedia

Say "tú eres caliente"... although the expression sounds like a literal translation of some very popular English set phrase.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, consider the context and audience to determine if using "set phrases" is appropriate, as they can sometimes sound cliché or unoriginal.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on "set phrases" in your writing, as it can make your work sound repetitive and lack a unique voice. Instead, strive for a balance between familiar expressions and original wording.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set phrases" functions as a noun phrase, typically used to refer to commonly used expressions or idioms in a language. As Ludwig AI suggests, they can add familiarity but should be balanced with originality. Examples show usage in describing writing styles, language learning, and communication.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "set phrases" refers to commonly used expressions or idioms. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While useful for clarity and relatability, overuse can lead to clichés. Alternatives include "fixed expressions" and "idiomatic expressions". The phrase is most frequently found in News & Media and Scientific contexts, with a neutral register. Remember to balance familiarity with originality in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fixed expressions

Focuses on the established and unchangeable nature of the phrases.

idiomatic expressions

Highlights the characteristic use of language specific to a particular group or region.

conventional phrases

Emphasizes the adherence to accepted norms or standards in the use of language.

stock phrases

Suggests that the phrases are readily available and frequently used, sometimes to the point of being cliché.

formulaic language

Highlights the structured and predictable nature of the phrases.

boilerplate phrases

Implies that the phrases are standard and used repeatedly without significant alteration.

prefabricated phrases

Indicates that the phrases are constructed in advance and used as a unit.

canned phrases

Suggests that the phrases are generic and lack originality.

clichéd expressions

Emphasizes the overuse and lack of freshness in the expressions.

hackneyed phrases

Highlights the worn-out and commonplace nature of the phrases.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "set phrases" in my writing?

Incorporate "set phrases" sparingly and purposefully to enhance clarity and relatability, but avoid overuse to maintain originality. Consider your audience and the context to ensure they resonate effectively.

What are some common alternatives to "set phrases"?

Some common alternatives include "fixed expressions", "idiomatic expressions", and "conventional phrases". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Are "set phrases" always appropriate to use in formal writing?

Not always. While some "set phrases" are acceptable in formal writing, many are more suited to informal contexts. It's important to consider the formality of your writing and choose phrases accordingly. Consider alternatives like "formulaic language" or "boilerplate phrases" for formal use.

How do "set phrases" differ from idioms?

"Set phrases" are generally understood literally, even if frequently used together, while idioms have a figurative meaning that differs from the literal meanings of the individual words. For example, "set phrases" are combinations of words, while an idiom like "kick the bucket" means to die.