sets apart

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sets apart" is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used to mean that something or someone separates two or more things. For example, "His dedication sets him apart from the other students."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"That's the one thing that sets apart the servers," she said.

The New York Times - Food

They could almost be film sets, apart from the dated sepia shades - like an old photo.

Independent

But one thing sets apart Mayor Bob Filner's newest outpost: it is in another country.

The New York Times

Julie Tice, a newcomer, is cast as the short female dancer whom Mr. Taylor traditionally sets apart from the group.

The New York Times - Arts

What sets apart investing geniuses like Warren Buffett is precisely their ability to ignore their emotions —or, perhaps, to use them differently than the rest of us do.

The New York Times

Others are buying DVDs and video games in bulk from warehouse stores like BJ's Wholesale Club, then taking the sets apart to create multiple gifts.

The New York Times

There will be 172 competitors and all matches will be the best of three sets, apart from the men's singles final which will be over five.

The Guardian - Sport

What Kapoor effected with sharp-cut holes, Fraser delivers with precise, linear units: she sets apart spaces for thought that are wholly distinct.

The Guardian - Arts

"Moments like that one in the world of dressing a 'celebrity' for major events," she added, "sets apart the great from the good".

The New York Times

That same medium-amber blend sets apart their self-possessed, self-titled debut album, just as it did an EP released in June.

The New York Times - Arts

But there is much more than the strikingly unconventional appearance of its design, by Frank Gehry, that sets apart the newly completed $36 million home of the Weatherhead School of Management.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "sets apart", ensure you clearly specify what is being distinguished and from what it is being differentiated. For example, "What "sets apart" this novel is its innovative narrative structure."

Common error

Avoid using "sets apart" without specifying the context or basis of comparison. For example, instead of saying "This product "sets apart"", clarify with "This product "sets apart" from its competitors due to its superior battery life".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sets apart" functions as a phrasal verb. It is used to distinguish or differentiate something from others based on its unique characteristics or qualities. Ludwig examples show its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

37%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Unknown/unmatched sources

14%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "sets apart" is a versatile and frequently used expression to highlight the distinguishing qualities of a subject. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically correct and suitable for diverse contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and formal writing. While maintaining a neutral register, "sets apart" serves to emphasize unique attributes and inform readers about the differentiating factors of a subject, with alternatives like "distinguishes" and "differentiates" offering similar nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

separates

A more general term for creating distance or difference.

distinguishes

Single word alternative; implies a clear contrast making something notable.

differentiates

Highlights the unique qualities that separate one thing from others.

makes unique

Focuses on the aspect of individuality and special qualities.

sets it above

Directly indicates superiority in comparison to other things.

singles out

Implies selecting something from a group because of its special qualities.

marks out

Similar to 'singles out', but can also mean to destine for something.

is distinctive of

Highlights a characteristic that is notably attributed to something.

elevates

Suggests lifting something above others in terms of quality or importance.

carves out

Implies creating a unique position or identity.

FAQs

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

You can use "sets apart" to highlight the unique qualities of something. For example, "What "sets apart" this company is its commitment to sustainability."

What's a single-word alternative for "sets apart"?

A single-word alternative for "sets apart" could be "distinguishes". For example, "This feature "distinguishes" this model from the others."

How does "sets apart" differ from "separates"?

"Sets apart" implies a more significant or distinctive difference than "separates". While "separates" simply means to divide or keep things distinct, "sets apart" suggests a noteworthy differentiation that makes something stand out.

What phrases can I use instead of "sets apart" to sound more formal?

To sound more formal, consider alternatives like "differentiates" or "is distinctive of". These phrases can add a more sophisticated tone to your writing.