set the context

USAGE SUMMARY

"set the context" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are introducing a topic or idea and want to provide background information. For example: Before we discuss the changes to the policy, let's set the context by reviewing what the policy was before.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Academia

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Let's set the context here.

The Washington Post

Let me try and set the context.

Cornell University

We didn't set the context very well.

The New York Times

Taped phone-sex advertisements and conversations set the context before they were overtaken by crackling static.

The New York Times - Arts

Here's how you could structure your response: Situation – set the context for your story.

The Guardian

They want to set the context, and to demonstrate that they're on top of their job..

The Guardian

The revolving blue rotor blades projected on the floor at the beginning set the context.

The New York Times

MPs could have insisted on indicative votes to set the context of the approach to Brexit.

The Guardian - Opinion

To set the context for that, let's look at the main drivers of success so far.

Harvard Business Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Logical and measured, he sets the context for attempting to understand what is changing in policing.

The Guardian - Books

"International developments are setting the context for most of our domestic challenges.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting information, especially complex topics, always "set the context" at the beginning. This helps the audience understand the relevance and significance of the details that follow.

Common error

Avoid assuming that your audience already possesses the necessary background information. Failing to "set the context" appropriately can lead to confusion and disengagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set the context" functions primarily as an idiomatic expression used to introduce background information or relevant circumstances to aid understanding. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s a correct and usable phrase. It serves to frame a discussion or presentation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

9%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "set the context" is a common and grammatically correct idiom used to introduce background information and relevant circumstances, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. It functions to provide necessary details for understanding a topic, ensuring clarity and preventing misinterpretations. While versatile, it's frequently seen in news, scientific, and business domains. To enhance your writing, remember to always consider your audience's existing knowledge and adjust the level of contextual detail accordingly. Alternatives like "provide background information" or "establish the framework" can be used for variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

contextualize the situation

Highlights placing the event or problem within a broader environment or setting.

provide background information

Focuses on giving the necessary details for understanding something.

establish the framework

Emphasizes creating a structured foundation for understanding.

offer a perspective

Highlights presenting a specific viewpoint or way of understanding the situation.

give an overview

Concentrates on presenting a summary or general picture.

lay the groundwork

Stresses preparing the foundation or initial stages.

frame the issue

Focuses on presenting the problem or situation in a particular way.

delineate the circumstances

Stresses describing the surrounding conditions or factors precisely.

introduce the subject

Focuses on starting a conversation or discussion about something.

paint a picture

Emphasizes creating a vivid or descriptive representation.

FAQs

How can I use "set the context" in a presentation?

Start by providing a brief overview of the topic and its relevance to the audience. You might say, "Before we dive into the specifics, let's "set the context" by discussing the current market trends."

What are some alternatives to "set the context" in academic writing?

In academic writing, you can use more formal alternatives such as "provide background information", "establish the framework", or "contextualize the situation" to introduce the topic.

Is "set the context" appropriate for informal communication?

Yes, "set the context" is versatile and can be used in informal settings as well. For example, you might say, "To "set the context", this happened last week when we were at the park."

What's the difference between ""set the context"" and "frame the issue"?

"Set the context" generally means providing background information for a broad understanding, while "frame the issue" refers to presenting a particular perspective or angle on a specific problem or situation.