Definition

1. Verb (transitive):

   • To present or explain something clearly and in detail: To state, describe, or list facts, reasons, or arguments in an organized way.
   • To propose or put forward an idea or plan: To suggest something for consideration.

2. Verb (intransitive):

   • To begin a journey: To start out on a trip or voyage.

Usage Examples

• Verb (transitive):

  • The author set forth his theories in the first chapter. (The author explained his theories in detail in the first chapter.)
  • She set forth a compelling argument for the new policy. (She presented a compelling argument for the new policy.)

• Verb (intransitive):

  • We set forth at dawn to avoid the midday heat. (We began our journey at dawn to avoid the midday heat.)
  • The explorers set forth into the unknown wilderness. (The explorers started their journey into the unknown wilderness.)

Advanced Usage

• "to set something forth": To formally present or expound upon something.

  • The document sets forth the terms of the agreement. (The document formally states the terms of the agreement.)

• "to set forth on/upon": To embark on a course of action, often one that is challenging or new.

  • He set forth upon a career in medicine. (He embarked on a career in medicine.)

Variants and Related Words

• Set out (phrasal verb): This is a very close synonym, often used interchangeably with "set forth" for both the "begin a journey" and "explain in detail" meanings.
  • They set out on a long trip. (They began a long trip.)
  • The report sets out the main findings. (The report explains the main findings.)

Synonyms

• Expound: To explain a theory or belief in detail.
• Articulate: To express an idea or feeling clearly.
• Propound: To put forward an idea or theory for consideration.
• Depart: To leave, especially to start a journey.
• Embark: To begin a journey or new venture.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Set out: As noted above, this is a direct synonym with nearly identical meanings.
  • She set out her reasons for resigning. (She explained her reasons for resigning.)
  • They set out for the mountains early. (They left for the mountains early.)

Related Idioms

• Lay out: To explain something clearly and carefully. (Note: This is a separate phrasal verb, not a variant of "set forth").
  • He laid out the plan step by step. (He explained the plan step by step.)

Verb

1. leave
   • The family took off for Florida
2. state
   • set forth one's reasons