# set in motion

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/set-in-motion
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To trigger movement or progress; to get going.

## Examples

- The new law will set in motion many changes.
- The CEO signed the contract to set in motion the company's expansion into new markets.
- The unexpected discovery of the ancient map set in motion a series of events that would eventually alter the course of their entire expedition.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.