1 B1 neutral
To begin a journey, especially one with a clear purpose or destination.
"We set out at sunrise and reached the summit by midday."
inseparable
set out
B1 neutral mixed transitive/intransitive
To begin a journey or task with a clear purpose, or to arrange and display things, or to explain something clearly.
In plain English
To start a trip with a plan, to arrange things neatly, or to clearly explain your ideas or intentions.
What does "set out" mean?
4 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B1 neutral
To intend or aim to do something from the beginning.
"The author sets out to challenge everything we think we know about modern history."
inseparable
3 B2 neutral
To explain or present information clearly and systematically.
"The report sets out the key findings in a logical and easy-to-read format."
separable
4 B1 neutral
To arrange objects or display things in an organised way.
"The market trader carefully set out his goods on the stall each morning."
separable
Usage tip
Very common in all three senses. 'Set out to do something' is a very frequent pattern implying deliberate intention.
Words that pair with "set out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
intention plan argument stall terms journey
How to conjugate "set out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
set out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
sets out
he/she/it
Past simple
set out
yesterday
Past participle
set out
have + pp
-ing form
setting out
continuous
Hear "set out" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "set out" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "set out"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
arrange depart embark explain intend present
Keep exploring
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