setting out

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "setting out" is perfectly acceptable in written English.
It is typically used to denote an action of beginning or starting. Example: Before setting out on her cross-country trip, she made sure to map out her route.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"You're setting out your themes.

The New Yorker

—"Setting out his stall", August 12th.

The Economist

"We knew that setting out".

The New York Times

Tonight, we're setting out again.

The New York Times

I'm setting out to increase my listings.

The New York Times

That's what I'm setting out to achieve".

The Guardian

I always felt calm before setting out.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"then setting out to fulfill them.

The New York Times

The rituals are strange -- the spring setting out of mulch, the summer setting out of barbecues.

The New York Times - Magazine

"She told me she was setting out to get arrested".

The New Yorker

Tonight, all he had was the setting out itself.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "setting out", make sure the sentence structure supports the phrasal verb. Avoid separating "setting" and "out" with lengthy or disruptive clauses.

Common error

Avoid inserting lengthy phrases between "setting" and "out" as it disrupts the flow and clarity. Instead of "Setting, after a long period of consideration, out...", rephrase to "After a long period of consideration, setting out...".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "setting out" is that of a phrasal verb, acting as the present participle of "set out". Ludwig AI confirms its common usage in diverse contexts, indicating its role in expressing the commencement of an action or journey.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

15%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

8%

Reference

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "setting out" functions as a versatile phrasal verb, commonly used to indicate the beginning of a journey, task, or explanation. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and widespread usage across various contexts, from news and media to scientific and informal writing. The phrase carries a neutral register, making it suitable for both formal and informal communication. Related phrases include "embarking on" and "commencing", offering nuanced alternatives. Remember to maintain proper sentence structure and avoid disruptive clauses between "setting" and "out" to ensure clarity. The phrase is well-supported by authoritative sources, establishing it as a reliable and effective expression in English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

beginning

A more general term for starting an activity or journey.

starting off

Similar to "setting out" but can also imply a specific direction or approach from the start.

embarking on

Suggests a more adventurous or significant beginning.

launching

Suggests a more public or formal beginning, often used for products or initiatives.

commencing

Implies a formal start, often used in official contexts.

initiating

Highlights the action of starting something, often a process or project.

preparing to leave

Focuses on the act of getting ready for departure.

arranging

Emphasizes the act of organizing or planning something.

intending to

Highlights the purpose or plan behind an action.

establishing

Indicates the act of setting up or creating something.

FAQs

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

"Setting out" can be used to describe the beginning of a journey, task, or explanation. For example, "Before "setting out" on the expedition, they checked their supplies" or "He is "setting out" his arguments in a clear and concise manner".

What are some alternatives to "setting out"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "embarking on", "beginning", or "commencing" to convey a similar meaning.

Is "setting out" formal or informal?

"Setting out" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. The formality often depends on the surrounding vocabulary and the specific situation.

What's the difference between ""setting out"" and "starting"?

"Setting out" typically implies a more deliberate or planned beginning, often involving a journey or task with a specific goal. "Starting" is a more general term for beginning something, without necessarily implying a specific goal or plan. However, ""setting out"" can also mean arranging or displaying, which "starting" doesn't cover.