set out

[vil]

Dear teachers,

Would you share with me your opinion about the usage of the phrasal verb “set out” in the following sentences?

How well has the author accomplished what he set out to do?

She has set out to get revenge.

set out = begin an earnest attempt, take up, have for an object

set out to do = intend to do, propose to do

Thank you for your efforts.

Regards,

V.

[azcl]

***Not a teacher***

How well has the author accomplished what he set out to do?

She has set out to get revenge.

Hi Vil,

In both these cases, 'set out' means 'began a process with a specific goal in mind'. I assume it derives from the idea of setting out on a journey to a particular destination.

So, the author began writing with the intention of imparting something specific to his readers - did he achieve this goal?

The woman concerned has very intentionally begun a process with the aim of getting revenge.

Ade