Phrasal verb
set aside
Meanings
to reserve something for later use or for a particular purpose
to save time or money for a particular purpose
to ignore or temporarily stop considering something (such as a disagreement or plan) in order to deal with something else
Definition
To set aside something means to keep it for a later time or for a specific purpose.
To set aside means to put something away so it can be used later or reserved for a particular goal. It is often used for time, money, or items that you do not want to use right now. It can also mean to ignore or cancel something temporarily so you can focus on something else.
Examples
- I set aside an hour each morning to practice English.
- She set aside the damaged mug and used a different one.
- They set aside their argument to finish the group project.
- We set aside some snacks for the guests arriving later.
- He set aside a little money every week for a new bike.
Common mistake
Learners often say "set apart" when they mean "set aside" for saving time or money; "set aside" is the natural choice for reserving for later.
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.