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
Jordan Bianchi, New York Times, 25 May 2026
With yet another cliffhanger in tow, Paula inches closer and closer to the truth — and certain danger — setting off a cat-and-mouse game drawing the mom further into Dennis’ criminal orbit.
—Natalie Oganesyan, Deadline, 24 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
By the time Suárez got out of his car, the rain had picked up, and officials quickly called the race, setting off an unbridled celebration.
—Jordan Bianchi, New York Times, 25 May 2026
With yet another cliffhanger in tow, Paula inches closer and closer to the truth — and certain danger — setting off a cat-and-mouse game drawing the mom further into Dennis’ criminal orbit.
—Natalie Oganesyan, Deadline, 24 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
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The incident triggered an emergency response, seeing the Shenzhou 20 crew return to Earth aboard the Shenzhou 21 spacecraft for safety reasons, and the uncrewed Shenzhou 22 launched to serve as a lifeboat and ride home for the Shenzhou 21 crew.—
Andrew Jones,
Space.com,
24 May 2026
-
The triggering issue was the new stadium for the Chicago Bears.—
The Editorial Board,
Chicago Tribune,
24 May 2026
Noun
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The woman’s one visible breast is, surprisingly, nearly flat, but her nipple is round and oversized and rosy, like a Christmas-tree ornament or a clown’s rubber nose.—
Naomi Fry,
New Yorker,
23 May 2026
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From plastic lawn ornaments to overly bright lighting, certain outdoor design choices can instantly take away from a home’s curb appeal.—
Angelika Pokovba,
Martha Stewart,
21 May 2026
Verb
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The Sun in Gemini activates your 10th House of Career, while Pluto in Aquarius strengthens your 6th House of Work.—
Tarot.com,
Sun Sentinel,
26 May 2026
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Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams.—
Harriette Cole,
Mercury News,
25 May 2026
Noun
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From there, the ornamentation strips back, room by room, evolving with the narrative of the album.—
Angela Tafoya,
Architectural Digest,
29 May 2026
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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
Verb
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The killing sparked global unrest and the largest civil rights protest since the 1960s.—
Emily St. Martin,
Los Angeles Times,
27 May 2026
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The big-box retailer known for affordable style has returned to its roots, sparking a turnaround after a multiyear slump.—
Joel Mathis,
TheWeek,
26 May 2026
Noun
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Associated with clean lines and primary colors, this architectural style favors simplicity and functionality over ornate decoration and tradition.—
Maria Sabella,
Better Homes & Gardens,
23 May 2026
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The assembly and decoration of each watch requires nearly 440 hours of work, and to honor the watchmaker who creates each of the eight pieces, a small plate bearing his initials is incorporated into the movement.—
Carol Besler,
Forbes.com,
23 May 2026
Verb
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The company says its selection approach is driven by performance data, with every title required to show active audience traction rather than simply occupying catalog space.—
Naman Ramachandran,
Variety,
26 May 2026
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The listing agent for Schottenheimer’s soon-to-be former home said proximity to work ultimately drove the NFL coach’s decision to move.—
Chantz Martin,
FOXNews.com,
26 May 2026
Noun
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The consequences for failing to meet your tax obligations can range from late fees and collection notices to wage garnishment and property liens.—
John Csiszar,
CNBC,
22 May 2026
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Basic questions include geography, employee types, pay frequencies, overtime rules, tips, commissions, bonuses, garnishments, deductions, benefits, PTO, job costing, and general ledger integration.—
Jen L’Estrange,
Forbes.com,
21 May 2026
Cite this Entry
“Set off.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/set%20off. Accessed 30 May. 2026.
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