SET-OFF Synonyms: 119 Similar and Opposite Words

set off 1 of 2

verb

Definition of set off

as in to trigger

to cause to function set off a bomb

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

setoff

2 of 2

noun

ˈset-ˌȯf

as in ornament

something that decorates or beautifies the architect used stone carvings as setoffs for the building's marble facing

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of set off

Verb

The decision sparked protests and set off years of litigation involving community groups, beach access advocates and, eventually, the state of California. — Daniel Libit, Sportico.com, 16 July 2026 Think of it like setting off a firework inside of a long, narrow hallway (which, by the way, is a really bad idea). — Laura Kiniry, Popular Science, 16 July 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

But authorities said the crews needed to carefully map out a rescue plan since a reckless excavation could risk triggering a secondary collapse, especially with the boulders at the scene.

— ABC News, ABC News, 19 July 2026
Long-term care facilities can be triggering environments, with intimate care often delivered by a changing stream of aides whom residents can't recognize.

— Jordan Rau, NPR, 19 July 2026

Definition of trigger

Verb

Running beta code comes at the consumer’s own risk; diving into the settings to activate features not specifically enabled by Apple will increase that risk.

— Ewan Spence, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026
Air defenses were activated in the Iranian capital, Tehran, and explosions were reported in several Iranian cities, according to state media.

— Arpita Dasika, CNN Money, 22 July 2026

Definition of activate

Noun

Master model designer Milan Madge incorporated metallic gold elements and raised textures to capture the original's rich ornamentation and depth.

— Matt Gardner, Forbes.com, 17 July 2026
Other examples of ornamentation include the scalloped crown molding in the entry hall and colorful tiling on risers of steps down to the south side of the house.

— Brian Bell, The Orlando Sentinel, 11 July 2026

Definition of ornamentation

Verb

His goal sparked an offensive assault from Boise as Portland sank into a deep defensive mould, with five defenders and four midfielders sitting tight in their own box.

— Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 18 July 2026
Jon Bernthal as Menelaus Menelaus is the king whose wife Helen sparked the Trojan War.

— Hannah Abraham, Forbes.com, 18 July 2026

Definition of spark

Noun

Around the space are Chicago Fire decorations, sign-up sheets, contests and team merch for sale.

— Becky Sullivan, NPR, 19 July 2026
This breakfast recipe is deliciously easy—a quick stir-together batter, a simple edible decoration, and a light dusting of powdered sugar.

— Josh Miller, Southern Living, 18 July 2026

Definition of decoration

Verb

To prevent speculation that drives up land price without actual construction, the zoning benefits would be granted only on submission of building-permit applications.

— Andres Viglucci, Miami Herald, 22 July 2026
Real estate has always been driven by connections between buyers and sellers.

— Heartland MLS®, Kansas City Star, 22 July 2026

Definition of drive

Noun

Federal student loan default can also expose you to wage garnishment, tax refund complications, and in some cases, Social Security offsets.

— True Tamplin, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026
Understand how your disability benefits are protected A major concern for many disability recipients is whether a debt collector can take their benefits via tools like wage garnishment or bank levies.

— Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 22 June 2026

Definition of garnishment

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set in motion

set off

setoff

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Style

“Set off.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/set%20off. Accessed 22 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of set off

verb

noun

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