PhrasesHub

set in

    Definitions

      • become established or ingrained
        Describe something that has become firmly established or fixed in a certain place or situation

      • worsen
        Describe a situation or condition that is deteriorating or getting worse

    Examples of set in

    • The winter storm set in suddenly, catching everyone off guard.

      When the weather changes quickly and unexpectedly, we say that the storm "set in." This idiom means that the storm began and intensified rapidly.

    • Liv's grandfather had Alzheimer's disease setting in, and she found herself having to help with his care more and more each day.

      As Alzheimer's disease progresses in elderly patients, we say that it "sets in". This means that the symptoms of the disease become more severe and debilitating as it advances over time.

    • The painter's latest artwork exuded a melancholic aura that appeared to set in as soon as one entered the gallery.

      When a mood or atmosphere permeates a place or situation, we say that it "sets in". In this example, the mood of sadness or mournfulness seems to settle over the exhibition as soon as the viewer steps inside.

    • After the banker's retirement, his responsibility and authority began to set in his predecessor's shoulders, creating a sense of confusion in the office.

      When a person takes on the duties and obligations of another individual, we say that these tasks "set in". This implies that the new person's performance may be uncertain or unsteady at first as they adjust to the new role.

    • The sun began to set in a blaze of orange and red, casting long shadows across the desert landscape.

      In this example, "set in" is used to describe the movement of the sun as it approaches the horizon. The idiom connotes a feeling of finality and the setting sun's colors become more intense as it nears the end of its daily cycle.

    • A deep sadness set in after she lost her husband.

      Here, "set in" is used to describe the emotional state of the subject. It implies a gradual and prolonged period of melancholy, rather than a sudden change in mood. The idiom helps to convey the intensity and duration of grief.

    • The storm set in unexpectedly, catching us off guard.

      This example illustrates the use of "set in" to convey an unforeseen event or circumstance. It implies a sense of uncertainty and perhaps even trepidation, as weather conditions can be unpredictable. The idiom helps to convey a sense of being taken aback by the sudden turn of events.

    • The country fell into recession after the economic downturn set in.

      This final example demonstrates how "set in" can be used to describe a wider societal or economic phenomenon. It implies a sense of complexity and interconnectedness in the way events unfold. The idiom helps to convey a sense of being overwhelmed by the scale and scope of the situation at hand.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "set in" can be used to describe something that has become firmly established or fixed in a certain place or situation. It can also be used to describe a situation or condition that is deteriorating or getting worse.

    Origin of "set in"

    The origin of the idiom "set in" can be traced back to the idea of something becoming fixed or established. The word "set" has been used in English since the 14th century to mean "to put in a particular position or place." Over time, the phrase "set in" came to be used figuratively to describe something becoming firmly established or ingrained.

    In terms of the meaning of "worsen," the phrase "set in" may have originated from the idea of something becoming fixed or stuck in a negative state, leading to a deterioration of the situation. This usage may have evolved over time to convey the idea of a condition or situation becoming entrenched and difficult to change. Overall, the origin of the idiom "set in" reflects the concept of something becoming firmly established or worsening over time.