Phrasal verb
set about
Meanings
to start doing something, especially in a determined and organized way
to begin dealing with a problem or situation by taking practical actions
Definition
To set about something means to start doing it in an energetic and organized way.
When you set about a task, you begin working on it seriously and with a plan. It often suggests taking practical steps rather than just talking about it. You can set about doing something, or set about something directly.
Examples
- I set about cleaning the kitchen as soon as the guests left.
- She set about writing her application after dinner.
- They set about repairing the fence before the storm arrived.
- We set about planning the trip with a map and a checklist.
- He set about organizing the files so everyone could find what they needed.
Common mistake
Learners often say "set about to do" but the correct pattern is "set about doing" (or "set about something").
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.