How to Use the Word “Set” In English: A Comprehensive Guide to the Word “Set‪”‬

The English word "Set" can be used in many ways. "Set" is chiefly a verb with many different meanings. Here, you'll learn different ways to use the word "Set" correctly. 

Sample This:

MOST COMMON Meanings of "SET" AS THE MAIN VERB ARE AS FOLLOWS:

Meaning 01:
to put sth/sb in a particular place, spot or position

Example Sentences:
He set a bowl of candy in front of a child,
That residential-looking structure was set in the back of a parking lot.

Meaning 02:
to cause sb/sth to be in a particular state, condition or situation; to start sth happening
(set sb/sth doing sth)

Example Sentences:
My question set them thinking.
That huge rock was balanced so finely that the slightest nudge set it moving.
No particular topic set them talking.

Meaning 03:
to give sb a piece of work, a task, etc. to perform

Example Sentences:
(set sth for sth)
They have set a new syllabus for this competitive exam.

(set sth)
The examiner will set the question paper on the spot.
Examiners are required to set the question paper at least half an hour before the examination.

(set sth for sb/yourself)
She should set a target for himself and come up with a plan to achieve it.

(set sb/yourself sth)
He has set himself a number of goals.
They have set themselves a series of rules.
She needed to set herself a target
He had set himself a punishing schedule.

(set sb/yourself to do sth)
He has set himself to read 24 books per year.
He set himself to improve his game and worked hard to compete at a high level in his career.
She is really set herself to play well again
He has set himself to work cheerfully.
Some players always set themselves to win.
He set himself to write his autobiography,
She set herself to learn many things.

Meaning 04:
(set something) to arrange, fix or decide on something

Example Sentences:
When he ran his first marathon, he didn't set a time goal except to finish the race.
How to set strategic goals that produce tangible results!
How to set screen time limits on your iPhone!

Meaning 05:
to place and arrange things such as plates, utensils, knives, glasses, forks napkins, etc. for a meal
(set a/the table (for sb/sth))

Example Sentences:
Teach your kids to set the table.
Set the table for friends, family, and loved ones!
Her mother told her to set the table for lunch.

Meaning 06:
to put a gem into a piece of jewelry

Example Sentences:
(set something in something else)
She set the ruby in her bracelet

(set something with something else)
The necklace was set with precious jewels—diamonds, rubies, and emeralds.

Meaning 07:
(set something) to fix something so that others try to copy, follow or achieve it

Example Sentences:
His aim was to set a new world record during the Olympic Games.
Can she extend her scoring streak and set a new record?