set phrase

set phrase
noun
an expression whose meanings cannot be inferred from the meanings of the words that make it up
Derivationally related forms: ↑phrasal (for: ↑phrase), ↑phrase (for: ↑phrase), ↑idiomatic (for: ↑idiom)
Members of this Usage Domain: ↑out of whack, ↑in the lurch, ↑like clockwork
Hypernyms: ↑saying, ↑expression, ↑locution
Hyponyms: ↑ruralism, ↑rusticism

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n. an unvarying phrase having a specific meaning, such as "raining cats and dogs," or being the only context in which a word appears, e.g., "aback" in "take aback."

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ˌset ˈphrase 7 [set phrase] noun
a phrase that is always used in the same form

Don't worry about the grammar, just learn this as a set phrase.


Useful english dictionary. 2012.

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  • Set — (s[e^]t), a. 1. Fixed in position; immovable; rigid; as, a set line; a set countenance. [1913 Webster] 2. Firm; unchanging; obstinate; as, set opinions or prejudices. [1913 Webster] 3. Regular; uniform; formal; as, a set discourse; a set battle.… …   The Collaborative International Dictionary of English

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  • Set speech — Set Set (s[e^]t), a. 1. Fixed in position; immovable; rigid; as, a set line; a set countenance. [1913 Webster] 2. Firm; unchanging; obstinate; as, set opinions or prejudices. [1913 Webster] 3. Regular; uniform; formal; as, a set discourse; a set… …   The Collaborative International Dictionary of English

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