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
Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 10 Sep. 2025
He was placed on waivers and claimed by the Cubs in August 1958, setting off a vagabond career in the big leagues.
—Jon Paul Hoornstra, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Sep. 2025
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
Lead author Lauryn Stafford, a researcher at the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington, said these numbers should set off alarms for governments and health systems worldwide.
—Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 10 Sep. 2025
He was placed on waivers and claimed by the Cubs in August 1958, setting off a vagabond career in the big leagues.
—Jon Paul Hoornstra, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Sep. 2025
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
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The signatories — which included the likes of EV manufacturers Volvo and Polestar, as well as material suppliers, battery manufacturers and grid operators — said the introduction of the target had already triggered hundreds of billions of euros in new investment.—
Sam Meredith,
CNBC,
10 Sep. 2025
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Polish airspace was violated by at least 19 Russian drones overnight, the country's prime minister said, in a torrent of activity that triggered a response from the NATO country's air force, which scrambled and downed several of the drones.—
Will Gretsky,
ABC News,
10 Sep. 2025
Noun
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The treasure consists of more than 40 coins and several ancient ornaments made of precious metals, according to the MNIR's announcement.—
Andrea Margolis,
FOXNews.com,
9 Sep. 2025
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Their distinctive products include lowball tumblers, decanters, and pitchers as well as decor like holiday ornaments.—
Caroline Rogers,
Southern Living,
31 Aug. 2025
Verb
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By that point though, United had activated on signing Senne Lammens.—
James McNicholas,
New York Times,
8 Sep. 2025
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Follow the link above to activate the best FanDuel promo code offer.—
Tyler Everett,
MSNBC Newsweek,
7 Sep. 2025
Noun
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Born into postwar optimism in the mid-20th century, the movement favored steel, concrete, and insulated glass in defiance of ornamentation.—
Will Speros,
Architectural Digest,
3 Sep. 2025
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Barnsdall is home to Frank Lloyd Wright’s first Los Angeles commission, Hollyhock House, with its commanding monolithic forms, geometric ornamentation, and modern take on Mayan Revival architecture.—
R. Daniel Foster,
Forbes.com,
15 Aug. 2025
Verb
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The space complements the retailer’s unique assortment of apparel and accessories, which for the anniversary will be further enriched by a selection of Gigli’s archival pieces, in a nod to Zambeletti’s roots and homage to the designer that sparked her fashion journey.—
Sandra Salibian,
Footwear News,
12 Sep. 2025
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When Weimers went on to give up his remaining speaking time for a moment of silence, Vice President Katarina Barley cut him off, sparking desk-banging protests from right-wing lawmakers in the chamber.—
Emma Bussey,
FOXNews.com,
12 Sep. 2025
Noun
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The festivities included a catered spread of food, themed decorations and a special gift from the brand.—
Erin Clack,
PEOPLE,
6 Sep. 2025
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Keep scrolling for more Halloween decorations from Pottery Barn’s clearance section for up to 50% off.—
Stephanie Osmanski,
Better Homes & Gardens,
5 Sep. 2025
Verb
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Police reported the suspect got into an awaiting black SUV driven by a second suspect, and the pair fled the scene.—
Natalie Neysa Alund,
USA Today,
9 Sep. 2025
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But there is also a deeper democratic malaise driven by his reluctance to heed the message delivered at the ballot box.—
Cole Stangler,
Time,
9 Sep. 2025
Noun
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Whitney warns that the situation is poised to worsen, with impending wage garnishment for seriously delinquent student-loan debt set to further squeeze this cohort.—
Nick Lichtenberg,
Fortune,
8 Sep. 2025
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If Darjean ultimately prevails, he will be entitled to pursue collection efforts, potentially including garnishment of Sanders’ NFL income.—
Daniel Libit,
Sportico.com,
25 Aug. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Set off.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/set%20off. Accessed 14 Sep. 2025.
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