Definition

Phrasal verb: 1. To cause something to start or begin operating: To initiate a process, series of events, or mechanical action. 2. To give impetus to; to launch: To provide the initial energy or force for something to start moving or developing.

Usage

This phrasal verb is transitive and separable. It is used to describe the act of starting a process, often one that is complex, lengthy, or significant. * The object (what is started) comes after the verb. * It is commonly used in formal, academic, and journalistic contexts.

Examples

• Basic Usage:

  • The committee's report set in motion a complete review of company policy.
  • Pulling the lever set the machinery in motion.
  • Her speech set in motion a wave of protests across the country.

• From the Reference Context:

  • Her actions set in motion a complicated judicial process.

Advanced Usage

• Passive Voice: Often used to describe processes that have been initiated.
  • A chain of events was set in motion that could not be stopped.
• Formal/Figurative Use: Frequently used for abstract processes (legal, social, political) rather than just physical movement.
  • The new law set in motion major reforms in the education system.

Variants and Related Words

• Set something going: A more informal synonym.
• Initiate (verb): To cause something to begin.
• Trigger (verb): To cause an event or process to begin, often suddenly.
• Activate (verb): To make something active or operational.
• Launch (verb): To begin something, especially an organized or official activity.

Synonyms

• Begin
• Start
• Initiate
• Activate
• Trigger
• Instigate
• Launch
• Get underway

Antonyms

• Halt
• Stop
• Terminate
• Conclude
• Arrest
• Cease

Related Phrasal Verbs / Idioms

• Set the wheels in motion: An idiom with a very similar meaning, emphasizing the start of a process.
  • We need to set the wheels in motion for the new project immediately.
• Put something into motion: A near-identical phrase.
  • The board voted to put the plan into motion.

Verb

1. get going; give impetus to
   • launch a career
   • Her actions set in motion a complicated judicial process