setting the pace

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "setting the pace" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that establishes a standard or speed for others to follow, often in a competitive context. Example: "The lead runner is setting the pace for the rest of the competitors in the marathon."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We're comfortable setting the pace.

The New York Times

Frac Daddy setting the pace, which is swift.

The New York Times

Dubai's Emirates is setting the pace in customer service.

The Economist

Four years later, it's still setting the pace.

Independent

"N.Y.U. is setting the pace that others will follow".

The New York Times

"I recall being very aggressive and setting the pace".

The New York Times - Sports

"It is the large companies that are setting the pace.

The New York Times

Government policy is important in setting the pace.

The Guardian - Opinion

But one thing is clear: games are setting the pace.

Harvard Business Review

Setting the pace in compensation is a tradition at Cravath.

The New York Times

2min: USA clearly intent on setting the pace here.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about competition or races, "setting the pace" can accurately describe the entity in first position that determines the tempo.

Common error

Avoid using "setting the pace" when you simply mean 'making progress'. The phrase specifically implies influencing the speed or direction of others, not just moving forward individually.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "setting the pace" functions as a gerund phrase, often used as a noun or part of a noun phrase. As evidenced by Ludwig, it describes the action of establishing a standard or leading in a particular activity or field.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "setting the pace" is a versatile and widely used expression that signifies leadership and the establishment of standards. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and prevalence in diverse contexts, particularly in news and business. While alternatives like "leading the way" or "establishing the standard" exist, "setting the pace" maintains a distinct connotation of influencing others through exemplary performance. When using the phrase, ensure that you are indeed referring to the act of guiding or influencing others, rather than simply making individual progress. Its frequency and adaptability make it a valuable addition to your writing repertoire.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

leading the way

This phrase focuses on the act of physically or metaphorically going first.

establishing the standard

This alternative emphasizes the creation of a benchmark.

taking the lead

This phrase puts focus on assuming a position of control or advantage.

dictating the tempo

This alternative is more suitable when referring to speed or rhythm of progress.

forging ahead

This suggests making progress despite obstacles.

blazing a trail

This phrase implies innovation and pioneering.

charting the course

This focuses on planning and directing a specific route or path.

being in the vanguard

This alternative highlights a position at the forefront of a movement or trend.

spearheading the effort

This phrase emphasizes initiating and driving a particular endeavor.

driving innovation

This focuses specifically on leading advancements and new developments.

FAQs

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

You can use "setting the pace" to describe someone or something that is establishing a standard or leading in a particular field. For example: 'Our company is "setting the pace" in renewable energy innovation.'

What are some alternatives to "setting the pace"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "leading the way", "establishing the standard", or "taking the lead".

Is it appropriate to use "setting the pace" in formal writing?

Yes, "setting the pace" is appropriate for formal writing. It is widely used in news articles, business reports, and academic papers to describe leadership and innovation.

What does "setting the pace" imply about the subject?

"Setting the pace" implies that the subject is not only progressing but is also influencing the progress of others, either directly or indirectly, by establishing a new benchmark or standard.