set about
B2 neutral inseparable transitive
In simple words
To start doing something in a purposeful way, or to physically attack someone.
Meanings
1 B2 neutral
To start doing something in a purposeful and energetic way.
"She set about reorganising the entire filing system on her first day."
Grammar: inseparable
2 B2
idiomatic
informal
To attack someone physically.
"The gang set about the lone tourist without any warning."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
The 'begin' sense is often followed by a gerund ('set about doing something'). The 'attack' sense is informal and mainly British English.
Commonly used with
task problem job repairs redesign reorganisation
Forms
Base
set about
I/you/we/they
3rd person
sets about
he/she/it
Past simple
set about
yesterday
Past participle
set about
have + pp
-ing form
setting about
continuous
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Synonyms
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