Phrasal verb
set in
To set in means to begin and become noticeable, often becoming stronger over time.
Meanings
to begin and become noticeable (often gradually), such as a feeling, situation, or condition
(of weather) to begin and seem likely to continue
Definition
When something sets in, it starts to happen and you can clearly feel or see its effects. It often suggests a gradual change that becomes harder to stop. People commonly use it for weather, feelings, tiredness, or conditions that begin after a delay.
Examples
- After the long hike, the fatigue set in on the drive home.
- As soon as the sun went down, the cold set in.
- I didn’t notice the silence at first, but it set in after everyone left.
- By the second meeting, boredom set in and he started checking the time.
- Once the rains set in, they stayed for days.
Common mistake
Learners often say "set on" instead of "set in" when talking about a feeling or weather beginning.
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.