Set about
phrasal verb
To start doing something, especially with a lot of desire or energy.
I set about cleaning the house.
Often appears as...
- set about doing something
- set about a task
phrasal verb
To attack someone, often physically.
He was set about by a group of angry protesters.
Often appears as...
- set about someone
- set about an attacker
Usage tips
Disapproving
phrasal verb
To start doing something, especially with a lot of desire or energy.
I set about cleaning the house.
Often appears as...
- set about doing something
- set about a task
phrasal verb
To attack someone, often physically.
He was set about by a group of angry protesters.
Often appears as...
- set about someone
- set about an attacker
Usage tips
Disapproving
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Energy and Desire
Expresses enthusiasm or strong willingness to do something.
She set about learning Spanish with unabated zeal.
Pro Tip 2/3Initiating Action
Implies the beginning of an action or process.
Right after the meeting, we set about implementing the plan.
Pro Tip 3/3Purposeful Activity
Suggests a deliberate and focused approach to an activity.
The community set about organizing a fundraiser.
Pro Tip 1/3Energy and Desire
Expresses enthusiasm or strong willingness to do something.
She set about learning Spanish with unabated zeal.
Pro Tip 2/3Initiating Action
Implies the beginning of an action or process.
Right after the meeting, we set about implementing the plan.
Pro Tip 3/3Purposeful Activity
Suggests a deliberate and focused approach to an activity.
The community set about organizing a fundraiser.
Pro Tip 1/3Energy and Desire
Expresses enthusiasm or strong willingness to do something.
She set about learning Spanish with unabated zeal.
Pro Tip 2/3Initiating Action
Implies the beginning of an action or process.
Right after the meeting, we set about implementing the plan.
Pro Tip 3/3Purposeful Activity
Suggests a deliberate and focused approach to an activity.
The community set about organizing a fundraiser.
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