set the timer for

USAGE SUMMARY

"set the timer for" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is often used when giving instructions or describing an action involving a timer or clock. Here is an example: "Before putting the lasagna in the oven, set the timer for 45 minutes to ensure it cooks thoroughly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It will even set the timer for charging.

Independent

She popped Misty into the microwave, shut the door, and set the timer for two minutes.

The New Yorker

You can set the timer for 15 minutes, 20 minutes, or whatever works for you.

The Guardian

Having never used one before, I set the timer for 40 minutes and merrily went away.

The Guardian

"I set the timer for three hours, and we went to dinner," he said.

The New York Times

Place in the oven and set the timer for 10 minutes.

The New York Times - Health

Close the lid of the grill – the vents should be closed — and set the timer for 2 minutes.

The New York Times - Health

For each recipe test I set the timer for 30 minutes, then let it count up once it went off.

The New York Times

The best plan: right after lunch (no coffee, please), set the timer for 30 minutes maximum and close your eyes.

The New York Times

Set the timer for 20 minutes and baste every 20 minutes, four times -- your total cooking time will now be 110 minutes.

The New York Times - Magazine

Then I set the timer for twenty minutes and the current to two milliamps, and turned the dial to start the flow of electricity.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When giving instructions involving a timer, be specific about the duration and the activity. For example, "Set the timer for 20 minutes while the dough rises."

Common error

Avoid confusing "set the timer for" with similar phrases using different prepositions. For example, "set the timer to" is less common and can sound awkward in certain contexts. Stick to "set the timer for" followed by the duration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set the timer for" functions as an instructional verb phrase, commonly used to direct someone to initiate a timer for a specified duration. Ludwig's examples showcase its practical application in various contexts, from cooking to time management.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

31%

News & Media

69%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "set the timer for" is a common and grammatically sound instruction used to initiate a timer for a specific duration. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide usage across various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Wiki sources. Related phrases like "start the timer for" and "program the timer for" offer similar meanings, while practical writing guidance emphasizes being specific with time durations and avoiding incorrect prepositions. Understanding the function, purpose, and register of "set the timer for" ensures clear and effective communication in both informal and professional settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

start the timer for

Replaces "set" with "start", emphasizing the action of beginning the timer.

activate the timer for

Uses "activate" to highlight the act of turning the timer on.

program the timer for

Employs "program" to focus on the configuration aspect of the timer.

configure the timer for

Similar to "program", but emphasizes setting up the timer's parameters.

engage the timer for

Uses "engage" to suggest the act of bringing the timer into operation.

get the timer going for

A more informal way to say "set the timer", focusing on initiating the timing process.

put the timer on for

Employs "put the timer on" to provide a simple alternative.

time it for

A shortened, more direct way to express setting a duration.

clock it for

Uses "clock it" to indicate the action of timing an activity.

allot time for

Focuses on allocating a specific time duration for an activity or task.

FAQs

How do I use "set the timer for" in a sentence?

Use "set the timer for" to indicate initiating a timing sequence for a specific duration. For example, "Set the timer for 30 minutes while the cookies bake."

What are some alternatives to "set the timer for"?

You can use phrases like "start the timer for", "activate the timer for", or "program the timer for" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "set the timer to" instead of "set the timer for"?

While "set the timer to" might be understood, "set the timer for" is the more standard and widely accepted phrasing. It clearly indicates the duration you're timing.

What does it mean to "set the timer for" something?

To "set the timer for" something means to configure a timer to measure a specific duration, often in minutes or seconds, after which the timer will alert you that the time has elapsed. It's commonly used in cooking, exercise, and other activities requiring timed intervals.