set out — 2 meanings

One phrase, 2 meanings. Learn them one at a time, then test yourself.

phrasal verb2 meanings

set out

start a journey explain or describe something clearly

Meaning 1 · most common

start a journey

set out for/on/to...

to begin traveling or going somewhere, especially after preparing for it.

How oftenCommon

LevelB1

Used inSpeech & writing

Examples

We set out early in the morning to avoid the traffic.

A: What time are you setting out for the airport?
B: Around 6 a.m., just to be safe.

Common mistake

Not: They set out the mountains before sunrise.

Say: They set out for the mountains before sunrise.

'Set out FOR' a destination (or 'set out TO + verb' = intend to).

More on “start a journey”Another example · Tell it apart · Goes with · Tip

Another example

When I travel with my family, we usually set out before sunrise to make the most of the day.

Tell it apart

We set out at dawn.

began a journey, esp. a longer one

We set off at dawn.

began a journey — everyday, any trip

Goes with

set out + journey/aim

Practice saying this

Next meaning: explain or describe something clearly

Meaning 2

explain or describe something clearly

set out sth

to present ideas, plans, or information in a clear and organized way.

How oftenNow and then

LevelB2

Used inMostly written

Examples

The teacher set out the rules for the project very clearly.

A: Can you set out your plan for the meeting?
B: Sure, I'll send you a summary this afternoon.

Common mistake

Not: The report sets out ~~clearly~~ the plan ~~in detail.~~

Say: The report sets out the plan clearly.

'Set out' takes the thing presented; keep the adverb ('clearly') after the object.

More on “explain or describe something clearly”Another example · Tell it apart · Goes with · Tip

Another example

In my presentation, I set out the main reasons why technology is important in education.

Tell it apart

The guide sets out the rules clearly.

explains them in an organised way

We set out at dawn.

began a journey

Goes with

set out + information

Practice saying this

Test yourself: which one is it?

Turn this into speaking practice

Pick a meaning and say it out loud. Save the ones you mix up.

start a journey explain or describe something clearly