Phrasal verb
set apart
Definition
phrasal verb. to make someone or something different from others, usually in a way that is better or special.
phrasal verb. to distinguish someone or something from others by a particular quality or characteristic. The verb is transitive and typically takes the preposition 'from' to indicate the group being compared.
Examples
“Her talent for singing sets her apart from the other students.”
“The unique design of the building sets it apart from the boring offices nearby.”
“What truly sets this candidate apart is her extensive experience in international law and her fluency in four languages.”
Examples
simple
“Her talent for singing sets her apart from the other students.”
contextual
“The unique design of the building sets it apart from the boring offices nearby.”
complex
“What truly sets this candidate apart is her extensive experience in international law and her fluency in four languages.”
Usage
usually followed by 'from' when comparing one thing to others.
Teaching tip
contrast with 'distinguish' and 'separate'; focus on how the phrase highlights a unique or superior quality.
Pitfall
His skills set apart him from the group.
His skills set him apart from the group.
when the object is a pronoun, it must be placed between the verb and the particle.
Phrasal verb
Particles
apart
Separability
optional
Pattern
set + object + apart
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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