to set a date

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to set a date" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of choosing or establishing a specific date for an event or appointment. Example: "We need to set a date for the meeting to discuss the project updates."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

"We've just got to set a date".

The New York Times - Sports

You have to set a date".

The Guardian

I wanted to set a date.

The Guardian

But prospective couples may want to set a date quickly.

The Economist

The judge has yet to set a date for the preliminary hearings.

The New York Times

Parliament is to set a date for a national vote that he seems assured of winning.

The New York Times

"It's a political risk to set a date so much in advance, but so be it".

The New York Times

The two sides still have still to set a date for this.

The Guardian

Cas will now work to set a date for their appeal hearings.

The Guardian - Sport

Merkel and Sarkozy both declined to set a date for the Greek deal to be finalised.

The Guardian

Previously, for instance, China refused to set a date for when its emissions would peak.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "to set a date", ensure that the context clearly indicates what event or occasion the date is being set for. For example, "to set a date for the meeting".

Common error

Avoid using "to set a date" without specifying what the date is for. Saying "We need to set a date" is incomplete; clarify by stating, "We need to set a date for the conference call."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to set a date" functions as an infinitive phrase. It acts as a verbal, typically functioning as a noun, adjective, or adverb within a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to set a date" is a very common and grammatically correct English expression used to describe the act of scheduling or determining a specific time for an event or activity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is versatile and can be used in a variety of contexts, from formal business settings to news reports. The most authoritative sources using this phrase include The New York Times, The Guardian, and The Economist. When using the phrase, be sure to clearly specify what event the date is being set for to avoid vagueness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to schedule a date

Emphasizes the act of placing an event on a timetable or agenda.

to fix a date

Suggests a more definitive and less flexible arrangement.

to arrange a date

Focuses on the preparatory steps taken to organize the event.

to determine a date

Highlights the process of deciding on a suitable time.

to establish a date

Implies a formal or official setting of the time.

to agree on a date

Emphasizes mutual consent in the selection of the date.

to designate a date

Highlights the act of formally appointing or assigning a specific date.

to pencil in a date

Indicates a tentative or provisional arrangement.

to book a date

Suggests reserving a specific time slot, often in a professional context.

to nail down a date

Conveys the idea of finalizing the date after some difficulty.

FAQs

How can I use "to set a date" in a sentence?

You can use "to set a date" when you want to define when something has to happen. For example: "We need "to set a date" for the next meeting."

What are some alternatives to "to set a date"?

Some alternatives to "to set a date" are "to schedule a date", "to fix a date", or "to arrange a date". The best option depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "set a date" or "schedule a date"?

Both "set a date" and "schedule a date" are correct and commonly used. "Schedule a date" might be preferred in more formal contexts or when using a scheduling system.

What does it mean "to set a date"?

The expression ""to set a date"" means to decide and agree upon a specific day for an event or activity to take place.