Set up
2 meanings · select one to explore
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Meaning 1 of 3
Definition
To frame someone or deceive them into a trap (informal)
Example sentence
He claimed he was set up by his partner.
Real video usage
Three clips showing this meaning in natural speech.
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Common collocations
Natural word pairings to memorize.
Common pattern: set + someone + up (for/to)
set someone up
set him up
set her up to fail
get set up
set up for a fall
Separable usage
Can the object split the verb? Compare correct vs incorrect.
They set him up to take the blame. ✅ (Correct — often separated with a pronoun object)
They set up him to take the blame. ❌ (Incorrect)
Meaning 1 of 3
Definition
To assemble or prepare equipment
Example sentence
He set up the tent before it got dark.
Real video usage
Three clips showing this meaning in natural speech.
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Common collocations
Natural word pairings to memorize.
Common pattern: set up + equipment (noun)
set up the tent
set up the projector
set up the computer
set up the speakers
set up the equipment
Separable usage
Can the object split the verb? Compare correct vs incorrect.
They set up the projector for the presentation. ✅ (Correct)
They set the projector up for the presentation. ✅ (Correct)
Meaning 1 of 3
Definition
To arrange or establish something (a business, meeting, system)
Example sentence
They set up a new business downtown.
Real video usage
Three clips showing this meaning in natural speech.
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Common collocations
Natural word pairings to memorize.
Common pattern: set up + noun (organization/event)
set up a business
set up a meeting
set up an account
set up a system
set up a website
Separable usage
Can the object split the verb? Compare correct vs incorrect.
She set up the meeting for Monday. ✅ (Correct)
She set the meeting up for Monday. ✅ (Correct)