set terms

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "set terms" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when establishing conditions or agreements in a discussion or negotiation context. Example: "Before we proceed with the contract, we need to set terms that are agreeable to both parties."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Introducing set terms and age limits was supposed to ensure smooth transitions.

The Guardian

"It is working hard to set terms that are more favorable to its own cause".

The New York Times

Why would Treasury set terms on when it can appoint members of the board?

The Economist

Yet the settlement set terms for all authors, unless they specifically notified Google that they were opting out.

The New York Times

(26) A request to set terms and conditions for the sale of or subsidy for a rail line proposed to be abandoned $26,900.

Cornell University

Those who serve on this board should do so for set terms, rather than "at the pleasure of" the mayor or borough presidents.

The New York Times

But they want to set terms for their relationship with Time Warner before its merger with America Online receives government approval and it becomes even more powerful.

The New York Times

Secretary Powell promised to send an envoy to seek a cease-fire and set terms for the creation of a "viable" Palestinian state.

The New York Times

It was Mr. Kiriyenko who set terms for the coming auction of the state-owned Rosneft oil company that were not in Mr. Berezovsky's favor.

The New York Times

The treaty assigned territories to each tribe throughout the northern Great Plains and set terms for the building of forts and roads within the region.

Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Given that a generic PDE is a summation of different terms, we used a set of linked containers to which level-set terms can be added or deleted at any point in the evolution process.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "set terms", ensure that the context clearly indicates who is establishing the terms and for what purpose. Clarity in this aspect enhances the effectiveness of communication.

Common error

Do not use "set terms" without specifying what those terms are. Vague references can lead to misunderstandings and invalidate the purpose of setting terms in the first place.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "set terms" is a verb phrase acting as a predicate, describing the action of establishing or defining specific conditions or agreements. It appears frequently in contexts where negotiations or contracts are discussed, as seen in Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Academia

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "set terms" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe the act of establishing conditions or agreements. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. Its frequency across various contexts, particularly in news, academia, and business, highlights its importance in formal communication. When using "set terms", clarity is key to avoid vagueness and ensure effective communication. Alternative phrases like "establish conditions" or "define parameters" can be used depending on the desired nuance. Overall, mastering the use of "set terms" enhances one's ability to articulate conditions and expectations effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establish conditions

Replaces "set" with a more formal verb, maintaining the core meaning of defining terms.

define parameters

Focuses on specifying the limits or boundaries of an agreement or situation.

lay down stipulations

Emphasizes the act of formally stating requirements or conditions.

stipulate conditions

Highlights the act of specifying conditions as part of an agreement.

determine provisions

Focuses on deciding the specific clauses or arrangements within an agreement.

fix requirements

Implies setting firm and unchangeable demands or prerequisites.

agree on terms

Emphasizes the mutual agreement aspect of establishing conditions.

establish guidelines

Refers to setting up general rules or principles to be followed.

prescribe regulations

Implies a more authoritative and formal setting of rules.

formulate conditions

Highlights the careful and systematic development of conditions.

FAQs

How can I use "set terms" in a sentence?

You can use "set terms" to describe the act of establishing conditions or agreements, such as "The contract allows both parties to set terms for collaboration".

What can I say instead of "set terms"?

You can use alternatives like "establish conditions", "define parameters", or "stipulate conditions" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "set terms" or "setting terms"?

"Set terms" is generally used as a verb phrase to describe the action of establishing conditions. "Setting terms" implies a continuous action or process.

What's the difference between "set terms" and "set conditions"?

While both are similar, "set terms" is a more general phrase, while "set conditions" specifically refers to establishing mandatory requirements or stipulations.