set up a field

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "set up a field" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of establishing or preparing a specific area for a particular purpose, such as in sports, research, or data collection. Example: "We need to set up a field for the upcoming soccer tournament to ensure everything is ready for the teams."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It set up a field goal.

The New York Times

"After the first attacks last week, we set up a field hospital.

Independent

His 94-yard return on the opening kickoff set up a field goal by Shayne Graham.

The New York Times - Sports

Hill did catch a 32-yard pass that set up a field goal.

The New York Times - Sports

It set up a field goal that gave the Broncos a 6-point lead.

The New York Times - Sports

Protesters have set up a field hospital and some smaller clinics on this block.

The New York Times

Bavaro had just caught a 38-yard pass that set up a field goal.

The New York Times - Sports

The center scored a touchdown and set up a field goal with his forward kicks.

The Washington Post

The government of Cyprus has kindly allowed us to set up a field office in Larnaca.

The New York Times

That set up a field goal by Matt Stover for a 10-0 lead.

The New York Times - Sports

In the second half, Hester returned the opening kick 79 yards to set up a field goal by Robbie Gould.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "set up a field", ensure the context clearly indicates what type of "field" you are referring to, whether it's a physical area (like a sports field) or an abstract area (like a field of study).

Common error

Avoid using "set up a field" when the intention is simply to use an existing field. The phrase implies creating or preparing something new, not just participating in an established domain.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set up a field" functions as a phrasal verb, where "set up" acts as a transitive verb requiring an object ("a field"). Ludwig's examples indicate it signifies the act of establishing or preparing something for a particular purpose. The phrase requires an object and functions to describe the act of establishing or arranging.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Academia

24%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "set up a field" is a versatile phrasal verb signifying the establishment or preparation of an area for a specific purpose. Ludwig's AI confirms its grammatical correctness. It is frequently used in news media and academic writing, with a neutral tone overall. To use it effectively, clarify the type of field you are describing, and avoid using it when simply using an existing field rather than creating one. By understanding its proper context and application, you can effectively use the phrase across multiple scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establish a field

A more formal synonym, focusing on the act of creating or founding a field.

prepare a field

Highlights the act of making a field ready for a specific use.

create a field

Focuses on the act of bringing a field into existence.

organize a field

Implies arranging or structuring a field for efficient use.

form a field

Suggests the coming together of elements to create a field.

develop a field

Suggests a process of growth or advancement within a specific field.

initiate a field

Focuses on the beginning or launch of a field.

build a field

Emphasizes the construction or physical creation of a field.

construct a field

Similar to "build", but often implies a more complex or technical construction.

pioneer a field

Emphasizes being the first to establish or explore a field.

FAQs

How can I use "set up a field" in a sentence?

You can use "set up a field" to describe the act of establishing a physical area for a specific purpose, such as "The engineers needed to "set up a field" laboratory near the construction site". It can also refer to establishing something new in a more abstract sense.

What does "set up a field" mean?

The phrase "set up a field" generally means to establish or prepare an area, either physical or conceptual, for a specific purpose. It implies creating the necessary infrastructure or conditions for something to occur.

Which is correct, "set up a field" or "setup a field"?

"Set up a field" (two words) is correct. "Setup" as one word is typically used as a noun, while "set up" is the verb form. Thus, you would "set up a field", not "setup a field".

What are some alternatives to "set up a field"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "establish a field", "prepare a field", or "organize a field". The best alternative depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. Consider the difference between "establish a field", which is formal, and "prepare a field" which highlights making a field ready.