setting the date

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "setting the date" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of determining or establishing a specific date for an event or appointment. Example: "We are currently in the process of setting the date for the annual company meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

But there is a possibility that a malicious attacker could trick an iOS device connected to a network set to automatically adjusting its time settings into setting the date to 1 January 1970 by pretending to be a time server.

The Guardian - Tech

In setting the date for Marler's hearing, World Rugby confirmed a three-man panel.

The Guardian - Sport

Setting the date for our group is a matter of high-level, delicate negotiation.

The New York Times - Travel

Setting the date to 2000 may cause software with built-in expiration dates to self-destruct.

The New York Times - Tech

We recognize that Delaware corporations have some latitude in setting the date for an annual meeting.

Harvard University

Another Reddit user, Vista980622, confirmed that the update would prevent users from setting the date beyond the 1 January 2001.

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

The broadcasters have set the date.

The Guardian

They compromised and set the date for Oct. 28.

The New York Times

Set the date ahead one year, to 2013.

The New York Times

CHEN HON-MING had boldly set the date.

The Economist

And once you set the date, when you're president, will you abide by that date?

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about events with flexible timelines, use "setting the date" to convey the decision-making process, as opposed to simply stating the final date. For instance, instead of "The meeting is on July 15", write "We are setting the date for the meeting in mid-July after consulting with all members".

Common error

Be precise when "setting the date" in written communication. Avoid vague language such as "sometime next week". Instead, provide a specific date or range of dates to prevent confusion and ensure all parties are aligned.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "setting the date" functions as a gerund phrase, acting as a noun. It describes the activity of determining a specific date. As evidenced by examples found by Ludwig, it's frequently used in contexts where a decision about timing is being made.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Academia

18%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "setting the date" is a common and grammatically correct gerund phrase used to describe the act of deciding on a particular date for an event. As confirmed by Ludwig, it appears frequently in various contexts, including News & Media, Academia and Wiki, with a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal communication. Ludwig's AI analysis reveals that it is used to inform or describe the process of establishing a date. While "setting the date" is widely understood, writers should aim for precision and avoid vague language when using it to ensure clarity. Consider alternatives like "establishing the date" or "determining the date" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establishing the date

Replaces "setting" with "establishing", emphasizing the act of firmly deciding on a date.

fixing the date

Uses "fixing" to imply a more definite and unchangeable determination of the date.

determining the date

Replaces "setting" with "determining", which is a more formal way of saying finding out the date.

scheduling the date

Emphasizes the act of putting the date into a schedule or calendar.

arranging the date

Focuses on the act of making arrangements that include the date.

deciding on the date

Highlights the decision-making process involved in choosing a date.

appointing the date

Similar to scheduling, but can also imply an official or formal assignment of the date.

naming the date

Emphasizes the act of verbally or officially announcing the date.

stipulating the date

Suggests a more formal and legalistic establishment of the date as a condition.

specifying the date

Implies a precise and detailed determination of the date.

FAQs

How can I use "setting the date" in a sentence?

You can use "setting the date" when you want to refer to the action of establishing or deciding on a particular date for an event. For example: "The committee is responsible for "setting the date" for the conference".

What are some alternatives to "setting the date"?

Some alternatives to "setting the date" include "establishing the date", "fixing the date", or "determining the date". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "the date is setting"?

While grammatically valid, "the date is setting" is not a common or idiomatic expression. It might be understood in a poetic or metaphorical sense, but it's usually clearer to say "the date is being set" or "the date is being determined."

What's the difference between "setting the date" and "scheduling the date"?

Setting the date generally refers to the act of choosing or deciding on a specific date. "Scheduling the date" implies integrating that date into a calendar or plan, making it part of an organized schedule. So you first set the date and then schedule it.