Phrasal verb
set down
Meanings
to put something down on a surface
to write something down so it is recorded or remembered
to let someone get out of a vehicle at a particular place; drop off
Definition
To set down something is to put it down on a surface or write it down so it is recorded.
“Set down” most commonly means to place something on a surface from your hands. It can also mean to write something down so you remember it or keep it as a record. In another common use, it means to drop someone off from a vehicle at a place.
Examples
- I set down my coffee and answered the door.
- Can you set down the main points from the meeting?
- He set down the box carefully on the floor.
- She asked the driver to set down her at the nearest corner.
- They set down a few ideas before the brainstorming session began.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse “set down” (put down or write) with “sit down” (take a seat).
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.