# set apart

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/set-apart
Updated: 2026-10-22

## Definition

to make someone or something different from others, usually in a way that is better or special.

For teachers: 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.

## Pitfalls

- Not "His skills set apart him from the group." but "His skills set him apart from the group." — when the object is a pronoun, it must be placed between the verb and the particle.

## Usage notes

- 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.

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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.