were set to face

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "were set to face" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that someone or something is scheduled or prepared to confront a challenge or opponent in the future. Example: "The teams were set to face each other in the championship game next week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

In January of 1997, the New England Patriots were set to face the Green Bay Packers in the Super Bowl.

The New Yorker

Britain were set to face China in the final having broken the world record before being bettered by the Chinese in the qualifying heat.

The Guardian - Sport

The two were set to face off Wednesday night, but Billups was sidelined by a bruised thigh sustained in a loss to the Orlando Magic on Tuesday night.

The New York Times - Sports

The decision to leave him at Class AAA and promote Lutz was based partly on the pitchers the Mets were set to face.

The New York Times - Sports

At the time, Liberal Democrats argued it should be introduced immediately, but backed off in government and were set to face a Labour-led vote on the issue in the Lords next week.

The Guardian - Money

Lysacek and Weir were set to face off again this weekend at the annual world championships in Goteborg, Sweden, but Lysacek had to withdraw after injuring his arm in a fall last week.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Striker Robin van Persie is set to face his old club.

Independent

The man was released Wednesday but is set to face charges in court in June.

The New York Times

After all that was said and done, Sheamus was set to face Seth Rollins.

Independent

Disgraced BBC broadcaster Stuart Hall is set to face questioning over fresh allegations of child sex abuse.

Independent

Jaime Garcia is set to face the top of the Rangers' order.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "were set to face" when you want to emphasize a scheduled or expected encounter, often one that involves competition or confrontation. Ensure the context makes it clear who or what is scheduled to meet.

Common error

Avoid using "was set to face" when referring to multiple entities. The plural form "were" is necessary when the subject is plural. For example, "The teams were set to face each other", not "The team was set to face each other".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "were set to face" functions as a verbal phrase indicating a future encounter, often implying a scheduled or expected confrontation or competition. As seen in Ludwig's examples, it typically connects two entities or groups scheduled to meet.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Wiki

12%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Reference

6%

Social Media

5%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "were set to face" is a grammatically sound and commonly used verbal phrase to indicate a scheduled or anticipated encounter. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It frequently appears in news and media contexts to describe upcoming events, competitions, or confrontations. When using the phrase, ensure correct tense agreement (using "were" for plural subjects) and be mindful of the context to best convey the intended meaning of a scheduled or expected meeting. Alternatives include "were scheduled to meet" and "were slated to confront", each adding a slightly different nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

were scheduled to meet

Emphasizes a prearranged meeting time.

were slated to confront

Highlights the confrontational aspect of the meeting.

were due to play

Implies an obligation or expectation of playing.

were expected to compete against

Focuses on the competitive nature of the encounter.

were going to challenge

Highlights the challenge and competition.

were on a collision course with

Suggests an unavoidable encounter.

were preparing to battle

Emphasizes preparation and intensity.

were lined up against

Highlights the alignment of opponents.

were in line to encounter

Suggests a natural progression toward the meeting.

were anticipating a showdown with

Emphasizes the anticipation of a significant event.

FAQs

How can I use "were set to face" in a sentence?

Use "were set to face" to indicate a scheduled encounter, especially one involving competition or opposition. For instance, "The two teams were set to face each other in the finals".

What's a more formal alternative to "were set to face"?

In formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "were scheduled to meet" or "were slated to confront" to maintain a professional tone.

Is it correct to say "was set to face" instead of "were set to face"?

No, "was set to face" is only correct when referring to a singular subject. If the subject is plural, use "were set to face". For example, "The team was set to face its rival", but "The teams were set to face each other".

What does "were set to face" imply about the encounter?

The phrase "were set to face" suggests that an encounter is scheduled or expected, often with an element of competition or challenge. It implies preparation and anticipation for the event.