set sights on

USAGE SUMMARY

"set sights on" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to mean the act of looking towards and aiming for a certain goal. For example, "The entrepreneur set his sights on launching his own company within five years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Now the Colombian paramilitaries had set sights on him.

The New York Times

Mr. Strawn of the state Republican Party said that Mr. Conway set sights on him early.

The New York Times

It comes from the article, "Divers Set Sights on Silver-Laden WWII Ship".

The New York Times

Then, he and his promoters set sights on Europe, again framing the investments as memberships in a select club.

The New York Times

It was the fourth straight session of gains for the FTSE and set sights on a fresh target.

The Guardian - Business

State Democratic leaders said Mr. Dixon served the district well enough to discourage most other aspirants to set sights on the seat.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Now they are setting sights on European trophies.

The Guardian - Sport

Analysts are also looking at who's next, setting sights on Italy.

The New York Times

Now setting sights on Con Ed property on East River, largest remaining undeveloped plot of land in Manhattan.$740 million.

Forbes

It all started after setting sights on a deaf cat named Bambi.

Huffington Post

P20 Sony sets sights on smartphone market.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "set sights on" to convey a sense of ambition and determination toward achieving a specific goal. It's particularly effective when describing someone's focused efforts.

Common error

Ensure the verb tense of "set" agrees with the context. For example, use "had set sights on" for past perfect, rather than incorrectly using "setted sights on".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set sights on" functions as an idiomatic verb phrase indicating a deliberate act of focusing one's attention and effort toward achieving a particular goal. Ludwig confirms this usage, illustrating its active and intentional nature.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Sports

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "set sights on" is a common and grammatically sound idiomatic verb phrase used to express a focused ambition or intention to achieve a specific goal. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is versatile and can be effectively used across various contexts, particularly in news, sports and business. When using this phrase, ensure that the verb tense agrees with the context of the sentence. Alternative phrases such as "aim for" or "aspire to" can be used to convey similar meanings. While the phrase is most frequently found in neutral contexts, its versatility allows for use in both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

aim for

Focuses on the act of directing effort towards a specific target or goal.

aspire to

Emphasizes a strong desire or ambition to achieve something, often of high value.

have designs on

Suggests a strategic or calculated plan to obtain something.

target

Highlights the selection of a specific goal or object for attention and effort.

set a goal of

Specifies the act of establishing a defined objective to be achieved.

strive for

Conveys the continuous effort and dedication towards reaching a particular aim.

have an ambition to

Highlights the presence of a strong personal desire and motivation.

desire intensely

Emphasizes the strength and depth of the wish to achieve something.

make a push for

Focuses on actively advocating or campaigning to achieve a specific objective.

intend to achieve

Highlights a clear and determined plan to accomplish a specified outcome.

FAQs

What does it mean to "set sights on" something?

To "set sights on" something means to decide that you want it and to try to get it. It implies having a goal or ambition and directing your efforts towards achieving it.

How can I use "set sights on" in a sentence?

You can use "set sights on" to describe someone's ambition or goal. For example: "She "set her sights on" becoming a doctor", or "The company "set its sights on" expanding into new markets".

What are some alternatives to "set sights on"?

Some alternatives to "set sights on" include "aim for", "aspire to", or "target", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "setted sights on"?

No, "setted" is not the past tense of "set". The correct past tense is "set". Therefore, the proper phrasing is "set sights on", not "setted sights on".