Phrases & Expressions

To make someone or something different from or better than others.

• Her unique style sets her apart from other artists.
• This award sets him apart as a leader.

To delay the progress of something.

• The bad weather set the construction project back.
• The project was set back by several months due to funding issues.

To begin and continue for a long time, especially something unpleasant.

• The cold weather has finally set in.
• Once the rain started, it set in for the whole day.

To accept something less than you wanted or expected.

• She didn't want to settle for a job she disliked.
• We had to settle for a smaller apartment.

To become comfortable and relaxed in a new place or situation.

• It took her a while to settle into her new routine.
• The children quickly settled into their new school.

To make a final decision about something.

• We finally settled on a destination for our holiday.
• They settled on the blue color for the walls.

To pay money that you owe to someone.

• You pay for dinner now, and we'll settle up later.
• He promised to settle up with his friend next week.

To officially approve or confirm something is complete or correct.

• The supervisor will sign off on the report by Friday.
• Please sign off the task once you have checked it.

To give official approval to something, often by signing a document.

• The director signed off on the final budget.
• Please sign off on these reports by Friday.

To leave a place or situation quietly and secretly.

• He slipped away from the party early.
• She slipped away while everyone was watching the fireworks.