as in to trigger
to cause to function
set off a bomb
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
as in ornament
something that decorates or beautifies
the architect used stone carvings as setoffs for the building's marble facing
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of set off
Adam Reiss, NBC news, 18 May 2026
Pissed, Mary switches the set off.
—Literary Hub, 18 May 2026
Rachel Wegner, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025
That setoff a worldwide hunt for the impact site.
—Roni Dengler, Discover Magazine, 21 Feb. 2019
See All Example Sentences for set off
Verb
The daytime killing set off a frantic manhunt across the Northeast.
—Adam Reiss, NBC news, 18 May 2026
Pissed, Mary switches the set off.
—Literary Hub, 18 May 2026
Noun
That setoff a fast-moving timeline that will ultimately determine if third graders who fall short on the test will move on to fourth grade or be held back.
—Rachel Wegner, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025
That setoff a worldwide hunt for the impact site.
—Roni Dengler, Discover Magazine, 21 Feb. 2019
See All Example Sentences for set off
Recent Examples of Synonyms for set off
Verb
-
The incident triggered a fire alarm, obliging the entire French delegation — some of whom were still in their pyjamas — to evacuate the building.—
Tom Williams,
New York Times,
17 May 2026
-
Prosecutors argue Mtula Payton and Dandrae Martin were part of rival groups that challenged each other, while defense attorneys contend the shooting was self-defense triggered by Sergio Harris.—
Sacbee.com,
Sacbee.com,
16 May 2026
Noun
-
The product was inspired by the popularity of the Barnum & Bailey Circus and packaged in the now-iconic circus train box designed to resemble a Christmas ornament.—
Kelly McGreal,
FOXNews.com,
17 May 2026
-
Make Your Own Art Make time for Sunspots Studios, a glassblowing studio where visitors can catch a live demonstration and choose some beautiful glass to take home, such as ornaments, vases, hummingbird feeders, and jewelry.—
Erin Gifford,
Southern Living,
13 May 2026
Verb
-
Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams.—
Harriette Cole,
Mercury News,
18 May 2026
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That foundation meant that when the mainstream moment arrived, there was already a real community ready to activate and amplify it.—
Olivia Shalhoup,
Forbes.com,
18 May 2026
Noun
-
It is surrounded by appliqué ornamentation reflecting the decorative arts of each culture and an ornate frieze around the periphery.—
Rachel Cormack,
Robb Report,
30 Apr. 2026
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Yet its sleek, monochromatic design serves as a quiet counterpoint to the temple’s rich ornamentation.—
Condé Nast,
Condé Nast Traveler,
23 Apr. 2026
Verb
-
Perhaps the shocking recent news of Alex Murdaugh’s convictions being overturned will spark voter interest in the Hulu true-crime miniseries.—
Los Angeles Times,
Los Angeles Times,
19 May 2026
-
The World Health Organization has declared an international public health emergency as a growing Ebola outbreak in Central Africa sparks concern that the deadly virus could spread beyond the region — including into the United States.—
Angelica Stabile,
FOXNews.com,
19 May 2026
Noun
-
These flavors are not just for decoration.—
Jim Dobson,
Forbes.com,
16 May 2026
-
Among Collington's awards and decorations was the Army Service Ribbon.—
David Chiu,
PEOPLE,
14 May 2026
Verb
-
The work is freelance and deadline-driven, with no salary, benefits, or job security.—
Literary Hub,
Literary Hub,
19 May 2026
-
Neto drove a 2-0 sinker 413 feet to center field, stunning Ginn and the A’s while ending a six-game losing streak for the Angels.—
Los Angeles Times,
Los Angeles Times,
19 May 2026
Noun
-
Can bankruptcy stop Social Security garnishment?—
Angelica Leicht,
CBS News,
18 May 2026
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For most Americans, fines, wage garnishment or worse are too big a risk to take.—
The Editorial Board,
Chicago Tribune,
28 Apr. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Set off.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/set%20off. Accessed 20 May. 2026.
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