set the floor

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "set the floor" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts such as establishing a minimum standard, price, or level in various situations, such as finance or negotiations. Example: "During the meeting, we decided to set the floor for the project budget at $10,000 to ensure we have enough resources."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

As the new stalking-horse bidders, the liquidation firms have set the floor for the auction.

The New York Times

This time around, the bank set the floor at $271,000.

The New York Times

Companies such as Ikea have used the calculator to set the floor under wages at their stores around the U.S.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

In the longer term, this year's levels, as a practical matter, set the floor for future spending.

The Washington Post

A "stalking horse bidder," which would set the floor for an auction, is likely to be picked by mid-January.

The New York Times

Berkshire then plans to allow others to make offers, but it has now set the floor for other bidders.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

A Governor's proposal usually sets the floor for negotiations, with the figures moving steadily higher.

The New York Times

Such measures are expected to take on new life with Democrats setting the floor schedule.

The New York Times

With an offer of $1.38 billion, EchoStar has been named the stalking horse bidder, setting the floor for the purchase price.

The New York Times

"The bid would be what is called a stalking horse bid, essentially setting the floor for other offers in the auction process".

The New York Times

The group's demands would essentially dilute Pelosi's power by forcing her to cede some control over setting the floor agenda.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "set the floor" in a negotiation context, be prepared to justify your proposed minimum with solid data and reasoning.

Common error

Avoid using "set the floor" when you actually mean to challenge or surpass existing standards. "Set the floor" establishes a minimum, while "raise the bar" signifies an increase in expectations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set the floor" functions as an idiomatic expression. It is primarily used to establish a minimum standard, price, or level in various contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage is considered grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Academia

24%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "set the floor" is a common idiomatic expression used to establish a minimum level, standard, or price. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically sound and widely accepted. It's commonly used in News & Media, Academia and Wiki. When writing with "set the floor", it's important to ensure you are indeed establishing a minimum and not trying to raise expectations. Understanding this distinction, as well as exploring related phrases like "establish a minimum" helps improve clarity. The phrase's widespread usage across authoritative sources such as The New York Times underscores its validity and utility in formal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establish a minimum

Focuses on the act of creating a lower boundary.

define a baseline

Emphasizes creating a reference point for future comparison.

fix a lower limit

Highlights the determination of a boundary below which something cannot go.

set a threshold

Implies establishing a level that must be exceeded.

establish a foundation

Focuses on setting up a firm base for something to build upon.

determine a starting point

Highlights the act of identifying an initial stage or level.

set a benchmark

Emphasizes setting a standard against which others can be measured.

stipulate a minimum

Focuses on specifying the least acceptable amount or condition.

institute a base level

Highlights the act of formally creating an initial value.

lay down a marker

Implies establishing a clear indication of a position or limit.

FAQs

How can I use "set the floor" in a sentence?

You can use "set the floor" to describe establishing a minimum level, price, or standard, as in "The company aimed to "set the floor" for ethical sourcing within the industry."

What can I say instead of "set the floor"?

Alternatives to "set the floor" include "establish a minimum", "define a baseline", or "fix a lower limit", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "setting the floor" instead of "set the floor"?

Yes, "setting the floor" is the present participle form and can be used when describing the action of establishing a minimum, as in "The negotiator is "setting the floor" for the agreement."

What is the difference between "set the floor" and "raise the bar"?

"Set the floor" means to establish a minimum acceptable standard or starting point, while "raise the bar" means to increase the level of expectation or performance. They are opposite in meaning.