set the pace
To establish a common goal by example.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“The captain sets the pace for the rest of the team.”
“Our manager sets the pace by arriving early and working hard every single day.”
“By consistently delivering high-quality research, the lead scientist sets the pace for the entire department to follow during the project.”
- 01
all set
Ready, prepared, equipped.
- 02
change of pace
A shift from one activity to another
- 03
game, set, match
An expression indicating finality, announcing that a series of events—usually involving some form of rivalry—has reached a conclusion.
- 04
grow a set
Synonym of grow a pair.
- 05
handbags at ten paces
Synonym of handbags at dawn (“a catty squabble”).
- 06
jet set
A social class of wealthy people who travel for pleasure.
- 07
keep pace
To run at the same speed as a pacesetter
- 08
pick up the pace
To begin moving or working faster.
Last updated August 10, 2026