set this in motion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "set this in motion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to initiating a process or action that will lead to a particular outcome. Example: "Once we finalize the plans, we can set this in motion and begin the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

What set this in motion?

The Guardian

Who set this in motion?

The Washington Post

McCarthy has the brains and imagination to set this in motion and there are some dazzling set pieces.

The Guardian - Books

"They feel they've set this in motion and don't have to deal with this for 10 years," he said.

The New York Times

Google set this in motion today.

TechCrunch

Credit California's Northridge earthquake for helping set this in motion.

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

There are so many factors that set this movement in motion early on, but there are some touchstone events that really helped.

Huffington Post

God may set this activity in motion, but thereafter no new motion or rest can be created or destroyed.

Wikipedia

A great deal of the bioengineering know-how that will set this process in motion is well in hand.

The New York Times - Magazine

In order to set this concept in motion, Tarrant reached out to a group of creatives including Money Mark, Aesop Rock, and Pendelton Ward, the creator of Adventure Time.

Vice

In many ways, the Battle of Pea Ridge set this process in motion.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "set this in motion" when you want to emphasize the initial action that starts a series of events or a process. It's particularly effective when the subsequent events are a direct result of the initial action.

Common error

While "set this in motion" is acceptable in many contexts, avoid overusing it in very informal situations. Simpler phrases like "start it" or "begin this" may be more appropriate for casual conversations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set this in motion" functions as a verb phrase that initiates an action or process. It is often used to describe the beginning of a series of events or a significant undertaking. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

12%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "set this in motion" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that indicates the initiation of a process or series of events. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for various contexts, although it appears more frequently in news and media sources. While it's generally suitable for both formal and informal use, be mindful of simpler alternatives like "start this" in casual conversations. The analysis indicates that the phrase is more common in news, media, and science contexts, signaling the start of significant developments. Consider the related phrases provided to refine your writing and ensure the best fit for your intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initiate this action

Focuses on the commencement of a specific action, highlighting direct initiation.

trigger this process

Implies a cause-and-effect relationship, where something triggers a series of events.

get this underway

Highlights the commencement of something, often a project or activity.

start this rolling

Suggests continuous motion or progress from the beginning.

set the wheels in motion for this

Emphasizes the initial actions taken to start a process.

activate this

Highlights the act of making something active or operational.

spark this off

Informal way of saying something has caused a series of events to begin.

kick this off

An informal idiom indicating the start of an event or process.

put this into effect

Focuses on making something operative or functional.

get the ball rolling on this

Idiomatic expression emphasizing the beginning of an activity or project.

FAQs

How can I use "set this in motion" in a sentence?

You can use "set this in motion" to describe initiating a process or action that causes a series of events. For example, "The new policy will set this in motion."

What are some alternatives to "set this in motion"?

Alternatives include "initiate this action", "trigger this process", or "get this underway". Choose the best fit based on context and desired formality.

Is "set this in motion" formal or informal?

"Set this in motion" is generally considered suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although it leans slightly towards the formal side. Consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing.

What is the difference between "set this in motion" and "start this"?

"Set this in motion" implies a more complex or far-reaching process being initiated, whereas "start this" is a more general and simple way to indicate the beginning of something. Using "set this in motion" suggests the beginning will have downstream effects.