set forth

C1 formal mixed both

In simple words

To start a trip or journey, or to clearly explain a plan or idea in a formal way.

Literal meaning: To place oneself or an idea forward — extending 'forth' (meaning forward or outward) to both physical and abstract motion.

Meanings

1 C1 formal

rare

To start a journey or expedition.

"At dawn, the explorers set forth on what would prove to be a perilous trek."

Grammar: inseparable

2 C1 formal

uncommon

To explain, state, or present something fully and formally.

"The report sets forth the committee's recommendations in considerable detail."

"We hold these truths to be self-evident..."
— United States Declaration of Independence (1776) — opens by setting forth foundational principles

Grammar: separable

Usage notes

Largely literary or formal in modern English. The 'begin a journey' sense is found in older literature. The 'explain formally' sense survives in legal and academic writing.

Commonly used with

argument plan principles conditions case vision

Forms

Base

set forth

I/you/we/they

3rd person

sets forth

he/she/it

Past simple

set forth

yesterday

Past participle

set forth

have + pp

-ing form

setting forth

continuous

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Synonyms

depart embark explain present state articulate

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