setting about trying

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "setting about trying" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating the initiation of an effort or task, particularly when one is preparing to undertake something challenging or new. Example: "After much deliberation, she is finally setting about trying to learn a new language."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

George Osborne said a review of zero-hours was welcome but also pointed to the broader economic climate: "We will make sure that [zero-hours] contracts are used in a proper way …but obviously the best solution for people who want to work more hours is to have a growing economy, and that's absolutely what we're setting about trying to achieve.

The Guardian

A metamodern "reconstruction" is not merely a "construction" because it recognizes that we are trying to "repair" something that was previously deconstructed; and it's not a deconstruction because we are, however cautiously and skeptically, setting about trying to build a "whole" object.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

No fewer than three British officers set about trying to extract information and to deliver their key messages.

The Guardian

He set about trying.

The Guardian

Mr Cameron set about trying to change that.

The Economist

And so I set about trying to obtain G. renardii.

The New York Times

Lisa set about trying to put her life back together.

The Guardian

His spirits on the upswing, Eriksson set about trying to meet the chaplain.

The New Yorker

Congressional Democrats were the ones who set about trying to push through a progressive legislative agenda.

The New Yorker

Frustrated and angry, Maliki set about trying to reduce Allawi's edge.

The New York Times - Magazine

And then each species sets about trying to get used to the other.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "setting about trying" when you want to emphasize the deliberate and focused initiation of an effort, particularly one that requires some preparation or planning.

Common error

Avoid using "setting about trying" in very casual conversations; simpler phrases like "starting to try" or "trying to" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "setting about trying" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the initiation of an action or effort. It's often used to describe the start of a process, especially one that requires some planning or preparation. As per Ludwig AI, this phrase is considered grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "setting about trying" is a grammatically sound way to express the commencement of an effort, especially one requiring focus and preparation. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. Although its usage is relatively rare, it is most commonly found in news and media contexts. When writing, consider whether the context calls for a more deliberate and focused tone, as simpler alternatives may be more appropriate in casual situations. Remember, "setting about trying" emphasizes the beginning of an intentional endeavor.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

setting out to try

Emphasizes the initial stage of a journey or process of attempting something.

getting down to trying

Implies a practical and focused approach to beginning an attempt.

commencing to attempt

Focuses on the start of an attempt, emphasizing the beginning of the process.

preparing to attempt

Focuses on the preparatory actions taken before starting an attempt.

starting to endeavor

Highlights the initiation of a serious or determined effort.

embarking on an attempt

Emphasizes the beginning of a journey or undertaking, adding a sense of adventure or risk.

beginning the effort to

Directly states the commencement of an effort, emphasizing the action being initiated.

taking steps to try

Suggests a more gradual approach, highlighting the initial actions taken toward a goal.

making a start at trying

Indicates an initial attempt, often implying a larger task ahead.

launching an attempt

Emphasizes a more forceful or formal initiation of an action.

FAQs

How can I use "setting about trying" in a sentence?

You can use "setting about trying" to describe the commencement of a task or effort. For example, "After the storm, the community "set about trying" to rebuild their homes".

What are some alternatives to "setting about trying"?

Alternatives include "starting to try", "beginning to attempt", or "embarking on an attempt". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis.

Is "setting about trying" formal or informal?

"Setting about trying" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. Simpler phrases might be preferred in very informal settings.

What's the difference between "setting about trying" and "trying to"?

"Setting about trying" implies a more deliberate and prepared commencement of an effort, whereas "trying to" is a more general term for making an attempt. "Setting about trying" suggests a focused approach.