# setting

/ˈsɛtɪŋ/ (US) · /sˈɛtɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/setting
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. place and time

noun · CEFR B1

the time and place where a story, film, or event happens.

For teachers: the historical, geographical, or social context in which a narrative or event occurs.

- The setting of the novel is a small village in France during the 1920s.
- The director chose a bleak, industrial setting to underscore the protagonist's sense of isolation throughout the first act.

### 2. machine control

noun · CEFR B1

a position on a control or switch that changes how a machine works.

For teachers: a particular level or mode to which a device or control is adjusted.

- You should use the low heat setting for your delicate clothes.
- The technician adjusted the sensitivity setting on the sensor to prevent the alarm from being triggered by small animals.

### 3. jewelry

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

the metal part of a piece of jewelry that holds a stone in place.

For teachers: the metal framework in which a gemstone is fixed to form a piece of jewelry.

- The diamond was loose in its gold setting and almost fell out.
- The jeweler recommended a platinum setting to ensure the sapphire remained secure despite the ring's delicate appearance.

### 4. music

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

music that is written for a specific set of words or a poem.

For teachers: a musical composition written to accompany a specific text or set of lyrics.

- The choir performed a beautiful setting of a poem by Yeats.
- The composer's latest work is a haunting setting of traditional folk verses for a solo soprano and cello.

### 6. going down

adjective · CEFR B1 · Literary

moving down below the horizon, usually describing the sun.

For teachers: moving toward or disappearing below the horizon.

- We sat on the beach and watched the setting sun.
- The long shadows cast by the setting sun stretched across the valley, signaling the end of the day's work.

## Examples

- The setting of the novel is a small village in France.
- The photographer chose a forest setting to capture the natural light of the early morning sun.
- While the plot is compelling, the author's rich description of the Victorian setting provides a necessary layer of social tension that drives the characters' motivations.

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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.