The idiom (all) set to do something is used to convey that someone is fully prepared or ready to start a specific task or activity. It often emphasizes that every necessary preparation has been made, and the person is about to begin.

Meaning of “(all) set to do something

Prepared to start a task: This phrase indicates that all arrangements are complete, and someone is ready to proceed with an intended action.

Example:

“Are you set to cook the steaks?”
(The speaker asks if the person has everything ready to start cooking.)

Example:

“Yes, the fire is ready, and I’m all set to start.”
(The person confirms that they have all the necessary preparations in place and are ready to begin.)

Usage and tone

  • Positive and confident: The idiom reflects readiness and often a sense of eagerness or anticipation to start something.
  • Friendly and informal: Common in casual conversation but can also be used in more formal settings when discussing readiness.

Equivalent expressions

  • Ready to go: Implies complete readiness to begin an action.
  • Prepared to start: A slightly more formal way to say someone is ready.
  • Good to go: Another informal way of saying everything is ready for the task.

(All) set to do something is a versatile idiom for expressing readiness to start a task. It’s commonly used in spoken English to ensure that all preparations are complete and the person can begin without delay.

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