The next word in our vocabulary boost series is SET. SET is a high frequency verb that can be used as a synonym of start, begin, establish, organize, place and put. There are numerous collocations and phrasal verbs that are formed using SET.
As recommended in our START method (HERE), you should always learn vocabulary as a short phrase and relate new words to synonyms and use them. Click (HERE) and (HERE) for advice on how to learn more vocabulary and HERE for an example of a great strategy to learn new words.
Collocations:
To learn new collocations and word patterns you should create phrases using them and also do exercises (HERE)
Set the table – put the plates and cutlery on the table
Set a condition – establish a limit or a state
Set on fire – ignite
Set a price – establish the cost of something
Set a date – establish a day or time for something to occur
Set an alarm – put the alarm on
Set a goal – establish an objective
Set sail – start a voyage
Set a good/bad example – be a good/bad influence on someone
Set a trap – try to catch someone (out)/capture
Phrasal verbs:
The learning of phrasal verbs is best done using this method (HERE)
Set up – start a business
I´m looking to set up a business of my own
Set off – start a journey
Let´s set off early to avoid the traffic
Set out – organize
The coach set out the team in an attacking formation
Set to – get started
The sooner we set to work, the sooner we will finish
Set aside – keep for a specific reason
I have set aside a few thousand pounds for next year´s vacations
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To learn how to use SET you need to practice and put these words and collocations into your own words to be able to remember them.