set the scope

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "set the scope" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is usually used to mean "establish the boundaries or parameters of something". For example, "We need to set the scope of this project before we can begin."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

We won the landmark case, which set the scope of censorship.

The Guardian - Opinion

It will fall to the courts to set the scope and application of existing copyright laws -- both new laws and those enacted long before the Internet -- to digital content.

The New York Times

BBC will investigate new subscription offerings but it will be for the "BBC to set the scope of these plans" which will feed into the next charter review process.

The Guardian

The early stages of a systematic review set the scope and expectations.

Journal of Clinical Epidemiology

We set the scope for selection of relevant legal instruments using an overview of global N and P flows between Earth system 'components' (land, water, atmosphere, oceans, biosphere) and the major anthropogenic N and P perturbations.

Environmental Science & Policy

A mere twelve hours previous, across the bar was a couture wearing priss while today, across the counter a grizzled gun salesman utters, "Here's a pamphlet on gun safety, blah, blah, blah...just sign it and I'll go set the scope for your firearm".

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

Beyond setting the scope for the kinds of deals they will list, portals — unlike brokers — will have little discretion to choose which companies list on their sites, said Douglas Ellenoff, a securities lawyer with the New York firm Ellenoff Grossman & Schole.

The New York Times

There are three issues that should be considered in setting the scope of a study with Likert measurements.

Financial Innovation

The Army Corps normally accepts public comments before setting the scope of an environmental impact study.

Huffington Post

Bills are written and amended in committee, establishing subjects of political change and setting the scope of legislative debate. .

Huffington Post

In practice, the agreement lies in setting the scope and realizing the mutual obligations amongst both payers and pharmaceutical companies depending on the occurrence of an agreed condition - the "risk".

BMC Health Services Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When initiating a project or review, always "set the scope" early. This proactive approach will help you avoid potential scope creep and keep your efforts aligned with the original objectives.

Common error

Avoid using ambiguous language when you "set the scope". Clearly defined terms and specific goals ensure shared understanding and prevent misinterpretations later.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set the scope" functions as a verb phrase. It typically precedes a noun, indicating the act of defining or establishing the extent or boundaries of something, as supported by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "set the scope" is a grammatically correct verb phrase used to define boundaries or parameters. Ludwig AI confirms its validity in English writing. While its frequency is uncommon, it appears across various contexts like science, news, and wiki sources. To improve writing, define the scope early using specific and unambiguous language, which will avoid scope creep. Alternatives include "define the parameters" or "establish the limits". Overall, using the phrase correctly helps ensure clarity and direction in projects and discussions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

define the parameters

Uses more technical vocabulary to refer to defining boundaries.

set the parameters

Replaces scope with parameters. It uses more technical vocabulary to refer to defining boundaries.

establish the limits

Emphasizes the act of setting restrictions or boundaries.

fix the boundaries

Replaces scope with boundaries. Emphasizes the act of setting restrictions or boundaries.

determine the extent

Focuses on figuring out the range or reach of something.

define the sphere

Replaces scope with sphere. Focuses on figuring out the range or reach of something.

specify the boundaries

Highlights the need for precise definition of limits.

outline the perimeter

Highlights the need for precise definition of limits of a certain area.

outline the framework

Implies creating a structure or skeleton for something.

delineate the scope

Uses a more formal word for describing the boundaries clearly.

FAQs

What does it mean to "set the scope" of a project?

To "set the scope" means to define the boundaries, objectives, and deliverables of a project. It involves clarifying what is included and excluded from the project's focus.

How to use "set the scope" in a sentence?

Example: Before starting the research, we need to "set the scope" to ensure we focus on relevant information.

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

You can use alternatives like "define the parameters", "establish the limits", or "determine the extent" depending on the context.

What is the importance of setting the scope in project management?

Setting the scope in project management prevents scope creep, ensures resources are allocated effectively, and helps keep the project aligned with its initial goals. Clear boundaries improve efficiency and reduce the risk of overspending or delays.