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Phrase(s): set something off
1. Lit. to ignite something, such as fireworks. • The boys were setting firecrackers off all afternoon. • They set off rocket after rocket. 2. Fig. to cause something to begin. • The coach set the race off with a shot from the starting pistol. • She set off the race with a whistle. 3. Fig. to make something distinct or outstanding. • The lovely stonework sets the fireplace off quite nicely. • The white hat really sets off Betsy’s eyes., Phrase(s): set off (for something)
to leave for something or some place. • We set off for Springfield three hours late. • It was afternoon before we could set off., Phrase(s): set someone off
1. Fig. to cause someone to become very angry; to ignite someone’s anger. (Based on set something off Q.) • That kind of thing really sets me off! • Your rude behavior set off Mrs. Franklin. 2. Fig. to cause someone to start talking or lecturing about a particular subject. (Based on set something off W.) • When I mentioned high taxes it really set Walter off. He talked and talked. • The subject set off my uncle, and he talked on endlessly.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
2
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1. Give rise to, cause to occur, as in The acid set off a chemical reaction. [Early 1600s] 2. Cause to explode, as in They set off a bomb. [Late 1800s] 3. Distinguish, show to be different, contrast with, as in That black coat sets him off from the others in the picture, or Italics set this sentence off from the rest of the text. [Late 1500s] 4. Enhance, make more attractive, as in That color sets off her blonde hair. [Early 1600s] 5. Begin a journey, leave, as in When do you set off for Europe? [Second half of 1700s]
American Heritage Idioms