sets a date

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sets a date" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of establishing a specific time for an event or meeting. Example: "The committee sets a date for the annual conference every year in January."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Westminster Coroner's Court sets a date for Koseda's inquest: 6 January.

Independent

Defense lawyers now have a chance to rebut the arguments before the judge sets a date for his verdict.

The New York Times

The law will not take effect until it receives royal assent — a final ceremonial stage of the legislative process — and the government sets a date for legalization.

The Washington Post

Mr. Bush said Friday that he would not receive Mr. Aziz until Baghdad sets a date for Mr. Baker's visit before Jan . 3

The New York Times

Jack adds a Title, sets a date, adds a URL to the original news article online and adds a text description.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The user sets a date by which she will contact the other or when she expects the other to contact her.

Stanford University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

BETTMAN: We haven't set a date.

The New York Times

QUESTIONER: Have you set a date?

The New York Times

They are satisfied and set a date.

The New York Times

We set a date for Thursday.

The New York Times

No, we have not set a date.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sets a date" when you want to convey the act of formally establishing a specific time for something, adding a sense of decisiveness or officialdom to the action.

Common error

Avoid using a plural subject with the singular verb "sets". For example, instead of "They sets a date", use "They set a date".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sets a date" functions as a verb phrase. It indicates the action of establishing or deciding upon a particular day for an event or activity. Ludwig indicates that it's a correct and usable expression.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Academia

29%

Science

18%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "sets a date" is a grammatically sound and commonly used verb phrase that indicates the act of establishing a specific time for an event. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable. It is most frequently found in neutral contexts, such as news and media, but also appears in academia. While there are no common grammatical errors associated with the phrase itself, ensure subject-verb agreement. Alternatives such as "establish a date" or "schedule a date" can be used depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establish a date

A more formal alternative, suitable for official communication.

schedule a date

Focuses on the act of fitting the date into an existing schedule.

arrange a date

Highlights the coordination involved in setting the date.

fix a date

Emphasizes the finality and firmness of the decision.

name the date

Implies an element of anticipation or request.

designate a date

Suggests a formal assignment or official declaration.

agree on a date

Focuses on the mutual consent involved in the process.

decide on a date

Highlights the decision-making aspect of choosing the date.

book a date

Implies reserving a previously free slot.

pencil in a date

Suggests a tentative or provisional arrangement.

FAQs

What does it mean to "set a date"?

To "set a date" means to decide on and establish a specific day for an event or activity to take place. It indicates a firm commitment to a future time.

How can I use "sets a date" in a sentence?

You can use "sets a date" in a sentence like this: "The committee "established a date" for the conference" or "The judge "fixed a date" for the trial."

What are some synonyms for "sets a date"?

Some synonyms for "sets a date" include "schedule a date", "arrange a date", "fix a date", or "establish a date".

Is it better to say "sets a date" or "agrees on a date"?

"Sets a date" implies a unilateral decision, while "agrees on a date" suggests a mutual agreement. The best choice depends on whether the date was decided by one party or by multiple parties through discussion and consensus.