setting a record

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "setting a record" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to achieving a new best performance or milestone in a particular activity or field. Example: "The athlete is setting a record for the fastest marathon time in history."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

We never talked about setting a record.

The New York Times - Sports

Setting a record has rarely seemed so easy.

The New Yorker

It's 1928 and they are intent on setting a record.

The Guardian - Books

This year, the Legislature adopted a budget 100 days late, setting a record.

The New York Times

O'Neill's horses ended up setting a record for wins at that Santa Anita meet.

The New York Times - Sports

I had no clue about setting a record or anything like that".

The New York Times - Sports

WHERE did temperatures reach 112 degrees in 2012, setting a record?

The New York Times

But setting a record like this is an open-ended proposition.

The New York Times - Sports

Joining the Yankees in setting a record may be easier for the Mets than overtaking them.

The New York Times

In fact, 2001 may end up setting a record for home sales.

The New York Times

Black, Hispanic and Asian voters made up nearly a quarter of the electorate, setting a record.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Quantify the record if possible. Instead of saying "The company is setting a record", specify "The company is setting a record for the highest quarterly revenue".

Common error

Avoid using "setting a record" without providing sufficient context. Simply stating someone is "setting a record" leaves the audience wondering what record is being set, diminishing the impact of the statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "setting a record" functions as a verbal phrase often acting as part of a larger clause, typically describing an action in progress or a potential accomplishment. The many examples provided by Ludwig showcase its versatility in different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "setting a record" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to describe the act of establishing a new high or surpassing a previous best. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is widely applicable across diverse contexts, particularly in news, encyclopedias and formal settings. While the phrase itself is straightforward, context is key to ensure the phrase is applied accurately and has clarity. Common errors can be avoided by quantifying the record and detailing the context. With related alternatives like "establishing a new record", and "breaking a record" "setting a record" remains a versatile and impactful phrase to communicate noteworthy achievements.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establishing a new record

Replaces "setting" with "establishing", emphasizing the act of creating a record.

breaking a record

Focuses on surpassing an existing record, highlighting the act of overcoming a previous achievement.

setting a new benchmark

Indicates establishing a standard that others will aim to achieve.

achieving a milestone

Shifts the focus to reaching a significant point rather than specifically setting a numerical record.

reaching a record level

Highlights the level or extent of achievement.

attaining a new high

Emphasizes reaching a peak or maximum value, broader than just records.

topping the charts

Specifically used in contexts where rankings or charts are involved, like music or sales.

making history

Emphasizes the historical significance of the achievement, rather than the numerical record itself.

creating a precedent

Highlights the act of setting an example or standard for future actions.

outperforming all expectations

Focuses on exceeding anticipated results, suggesting that a record may have been set as a consequence.

FAQs

How can I use "setting a record" in a sentence?

You can use "setting a record" to describe achieving a new best in a particular activity. For example, "The athlete is "setting a record" for the fastest marathon time" or "The company is "setting a record" for quarterly profits."

What are some alternatives to "setting a record"?

Alternatives include "establishing a new record", "breaking a record", or "achieving a milestone". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "set a record" instead of "setting a record"?

Both are correct, but they have different uses. "Set a record" is often used in the past tense or as an infinitive, while "setting a record" is used in continuous tenses. For example, "She set a record" versus "She is "setting a record"."

What's the difference between "setting a record" and "breaking a record"?

"Setting a record" can refer to establishing a new record where none existed before, or surpassing an existing one. "Breaking a record" specifically means exceeding a previously established record. It highlights the act of surpassing a prior achievement.