set up expectations

USAGE SUMMARY

'set up expectations' is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used to mean establishing or communicating expectations or principles for an activity or situation. For example, "The teacher set up expectations early in the semester about the standards of conduct they expected from their students."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

The titles that guide us set up expectations nearly impossible to fulfill.

The New York Times - Arts

Over time this pattern has set up expectations among viewers, Mr. Metcalf said.

The New York Times - Arts

He set up expectations among liberals that he would do whatever is necessary to secure a deal for the Dreamers.

The New York Times

Each movement flows along inevitably, but with framing devices — a falling chord progression, a snarling brass chorale — which set up expectations that, in turn, invite surprise.

The New Yorker

Then came the first of his crackling, speeded-up dance beats, used not just for momentum but to set up expectations that he could knock around.

The New York Times - Arts

"Horror can be very similar to comedy, the way you set up expectations and lead the audience down a path," Mr. Raimi said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

However, high levels of optimism may also be unhelpful if they set up expectation that cannot be met or encourage a passive 'everything will be alright' attitude.

Health and Quality of Life Outcomes

"I'm not setting up expectations that I can't meet".

The New York Times

Unfortunately, the similarity sets up expectations for a bigger voice, especially when the role is Hoffmann, once a Domingo specialty.

The New York Times - Arts

Childhood sets up expectations as does later life experience, the media or simply looking around and comparing ourselves with others.

The Guardian

As the premier urban park in Northern California, Golden Gate Park sets up expectations than an English garden aesthetic can and should exist in California's arid climate.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "set up expectations", clearly define what those expectations are. Avoid ambiguity to prevent misunderstandings.

Common error

Avoid "setting up expectations" that are unrealistic or impossible to meet. This can lead to disappointment and loss of credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set up expectations" functions as a verb phrase used to describe the act of establishing or creating a set of anticipated outcomes or standards. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is commonly used. The examples show it used in contexts ranging from personal relationships to professional settings.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

34%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "set up expectations" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase that describes the act of establishing standards or anticipated outcomes. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is usable in written English. It is frequently found in News & Media, Science and Academic contexts. To ensure effective communication, it's crucial to clearly define the expectations being set and to avoid overpromising. Related phrases like "establish anticipation" and "define parameters" can offer alternative ways to express this concept. Being mindful of these nuances will help you use "set up expectations" with precision and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establish anticipation

Focuses on creating a sense of anticipation rather than just stating expectations.

create an understanding

Emphasizes the formation of a mutual understanding.

lay the groundwork

Suggests preparing a foundation or basis for something to occur.

define parameters

Highlights setting specific limits or boundaries.

shape perceptions

Indicates influencing how something is viewed or understood.

formulate guidelines

Suggests the creation of a more formal set of rules.

instill hopes

Focuses on inspiring positive expectations or desires.

foster beliefs

Emphasizes nurturing or encouraging particular convictions.

build up suspense

Implies creating a feeling of excitement or uncertainty about what might happen.

condition responses

Highlights influencing behavior or reactions.

FAQs

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

You can use "set up expectations" to describe the act of establishing a standard for future events, for example: "The manager "set up expectations" for the team's performance during the project kickoff meeting."

What's a more formal alternative to "set up expectations"?

In a formal context, consider using phrases like "establish anticipation" or "define parameters" to convey a similar meaning with a higher degree of formality.

Is it better to say "setting expectations" or "set up expectations"?

Both "setting expectations" and "set up expectations" are grammatically correct, but "setting expectations" is more common in continuous tenses or gerund forms. "Set up expectations" is typically used in past or present perfect tenses.

How does "set up expectations" differ from "manage expectations"?

"Set up expectations" refers to the initial act of establishing standards, while "manage expectations" involves adjusting or influencing existing perceptions to align with reality or possibilities.