set them apart from

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "set them apart from" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate how something distinguishes or differentiates itself from others. Example: "Her unique style really sets her apart from the other artists in the gallery."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

The backing vocal harmonies that set them apart from their cohort.

The New Yorker

Doyle said the spirit of the team championships set them apart from other tournaments.

The New York Times

She praised the qualities of small business community that set them apart from their corporate counterparts.

The Guardian

It is one of the principal factors that set them apart from adult killers.

The New York Times

Their costumes (by Maile Okamura) immediately set them apart from each other.

The New Yorker

Carriers are working to offer services that set them apart from others.

The New York Times - Tech

But birds have some unusual features that set them apart from all the other dinosaurs.

The Guardian

But more than looks and location set them apart from mainstream America.

The New York Times

They often supported the government's economic reforms, so voters saw little to set them apart from those in power.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

That sets them apart from most frogs.

The New York Times

That's what sets them apart from other eels".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the level of formality required for your writing. While "set them apart from" is suitable for most contexts, more formal writing might benefit from synonyms like "distinguish them from" or "differentiate them from".

Common error

Avoid using "set it/himself/herself apart from" when referring to a collective noun or group. Instead, use "set them apart from" to correctly reflect the plural subject.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set them apart from" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically used to modify a verb by specifying how something or someone is different from others. It describes the action of distinguishing or differentiating. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "set them apart from" is a versatile and grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to emphasize the distinct qualities of a subject. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for various writing styles, though alternatives like "distinguish them from" may suit more formal contexts. The phrase is commonly found in News & Media and Science, indicating its wide applicability. When using this phrase, clarity is key; ensure the subject and distinguishing characteristics are well-defined. Avoid misuse of pronouns by ensuring agreement with the subject. Overall, mastering the use of "set them apart from" will add clarity and impact to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

distinguish them from

Replaces "set apart" with a more direct synonym, emphasizing the act of noticing differences.

differentiate them from

Similar to "distinguish", but often implies a more systematic comparison to highlight differences.

make them stand out from

Focuses on the visual or noticeable aspect of being different.

separate them from

Emphasizes a division or boundary between the subjects.

contrast them with

Highlights the differences by comparing them directly.

mark them as distinct from

Adds emphasis to the uniqueness and clear differentiation.

singles them out from

Suggests that one or more specific qualities make them unique.

carve out a niche

Implies they are creating a unique space for themselves.

give them an edge over

Focuses on competitive advantage due to their distinctiveness.

define their uniqueness compared to

Highlights uniqueness through defining characteristics relative to others.

FAQs

How can I use "set them apart from" in a sentence?

Use "set them apart from" to describe how particular qualities or characteristics make a group or entity different from others. For instance: "Their innovative designs set them apart from their competitors".

What's a simple substitute for "set them apart from"?

A direct substitute is "distinguish them from". It carries a similar meaning and emphasizes recognizing differences.

Is it better to say "set them apart from" or "differentiate them from" in formal writing?

While both are correct, "differentiate them from" might be preferred in highly formal or academic contexts due to its slightly more technical tone.

How does "make them stand out from" differ from "set them apart from"?

"Make them stand out from" emphasizes visibility and immediate recognition, while "set them apart from" focuses on the underlying qualities that "distinguish them from" others, whether visually apparent or not.