WordLens

set off

1 of 1verb
/ˈsɛt ˈɔf/
Forms:sets off,setting off,set off,set off
1

to make something operate, especially by accident

transitive
  • Please don't set off the car alarm while I'm inside; the keys are on the seat.
  • She set the security system off by entering the wrong access code.
  • He accidentally set off the fire alarm when he burnt toast in the office kitchen.
  • The children's curiosity about the big red button set the alarm off in the science museum.
  • She mistakenly set off the sprinkler system while working on the garden.
Synonyms:
triptriggertouch offtrigger offsparkactuateactivatespark off
2

to start a journey

B1
  • We'll set off on our cross-country journey early in the morning to avoid traffic.
  • The family set off for their vacation in the mountains, filled with excitement.
  • The explorers set off for the jungle, equipped with supplies and a sense of wonder.
  • After breakfast, the hikers set off on the trail, ready for a day of exploration.
  • The cyclists set off on their long ride through the countryside, enjoying the fresh air.
Synonyms:
partheadmake forset outstart outproceedstarttake offset forthgodepart
3

to activate a bomb, an explosive, etc.

  • The demolition expert carefully set the explosives off to bring down the old building.
  • They set off the fireworks display at the stroke of midnight to celebrate the New Year.
  • The terrorist tried to set the bomb off, but it malfunctioned, preventing a disaster.
  • The soldier defused the explosive device, ensuring it wouldn't set off unintentionally.
  • The explosion set off a chain reaction, causing widespread damage.
Synonyms:
detonateblow upexplode
4

to complement the appearance of something, making it look more appealing

transitive
  • The dress you're wearing really sets off your eyes.
  • The arrangement of flowers on the table sets off the dining area beautifully.
  • The stylish shoes you're wearing set off the entire outfit with flair.
  • The artwork on the wall sets off the entire ambiance of the restaurant.
  • That hairstyle sets off your facial features in a flattering way.
Synonyms:
bring out
5

to be the first cause of a chain of events, actions, or reactions that unfold unexpectedly

transitive
  • Her comments about the topic set off a heated debate among the participants.
  • The unexpected news set off a wave of shock and concern among the community.
  • The politician's remarks during the speech set off a flurry of criticism in the media.
  • The sudden cancellation of the event set off disappointment among the attendees.
  • Please avoid discussing that sensitive topic; it might set off an argument.
6

to subtract certain expenses from one's tax amount

transitive
  • By carefully documenting their business expenses, entrepreneurs can set off a significant portion of their taxable income.
  • Homeowners often find that mortgage interest and property tax deductions can help set off the overall cost of owning a house.
  • Investors can set off capital losses against capital gains to reduce their tax liability.
  • Self-employed individuals can set off expenses related to their home office against their self-employment income when filing taxes.
  • Charitable donations can be used to set off your taxable income, encouraging philanthropic giving.
Synonyms:
offsetcancel
7

to intentionally provoke a reaction or response

transitive
  • The news of the scandal set off widespread outrage among the public.
  • The controversial decision set off a wave of criticism from various stakeholders.
  • The sudden announcement set off a frenzy of speculation and rumors.
  • The misleading statement set off a storm of confusion and misinformation.
  • The tragic incident set off a period of mourning and reflection in the community.
Synonyms:
incitestir upinstigate