was set off

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "was set off" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something was triggered, initiated, or caused to happen, often in a context involving an event or reaction. Example: "The alarm was set off by the smoke from the kitchen."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The city was set off and incorporated in 1894.

Encyclopedia Britannica

She told me his aggression was set off by fear.

The New York Times

His hair was set off by a faint silver streak.

The New Yorker

But it was set off by a bureaucratic oversight.

Independent

The latest commotion was set off on Feb. 12.

The New York Times - Arts

This unlikely scandal was set off by an unlikely crusader.

The New York Times

In 1812 the western part of Rehoboth was set off as the township of Seekonk.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The first blast was set off remotely as soldiers passed by in a vehicle.

The New York Times

The factory was set off from the street in a courtyard.

The New Yorker

The town was set off from New Bedford and incorporated in 1812.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The whole thing was set off with a resilient garnish of blue plastic bags.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "was set off", ensure the context clearly indicates what caused the triggering event. Be specific about the cause to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "was set off" with a plural subject. For plural subjects, use "were set off" to maintain correct subject-verb agreement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "was set off" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating that a subject underwent an action of being triggered or initiated by an external cause. Ludwig AI confirms that this structure is commonly used to denote causation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "was set off" is a common and grammatically sound passive verb phrase used to indicate that something was triggered or initiated by a specific cause. According to Ludwig AI, this expression is widely accepted and utilized across various contexts, from news reports to scientific literature. Its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse writing styles. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly identifies the triggering event to avoid ambiguity. Remember to maintain subject-verb agreement and avoid using "was" with plural subjects. Alternative phrases such as "was triggered" or "was initiated" can be used for semantic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

was triggered

Emphasizes the action of initiating something, often a reaction or event.

was touched off

Similar to "was set off", suggesting a gentle or subtle beginning.

was initiated

Highlights the formal beginning or commencement of something.

was sparked

Suggests a sudden and often energetic beginning, like a flame igniting.

was caused by

Focuses on the direct cause or reason for an event.

resulted from

Focuses on the outcome or consequence of a previous action or situation.

was prompted by

Indicates that something was encouraged or motivated by a prior event.

was brought about by

Stresses the result of a series of actions leading to a specific outcome.

was incited by

Implies a more forceful or aggressive instigation of an event or action.

was unleashed by

Indicates the release of a powerful force or event.

FAQs

How to use "was set off" in a sentence?

Use "was set off" to indicate that something was triggered or initiated by a specific cause. For example, "The alarm "was set off" by the smoke."

What can I say instead of "was set off"?

You can use alternatives like "was triggered", "was initiated", or "was sparked depending on the context.

Which is correct, "was set off" or "were set off"?

"Was set off" is correct for singular subjects, while "were set off" is correct for plural subjects. For example, "The alarm was set off" versus "The fireworks were set off."

What's the difference between "was set off" and "was activated"?

"Was set off" implies a triggering event caused the action, while "was activated" simply means something was turned on or made active, possibly without an external cause.