Pronunciation: [sˈɛts ˈɒf] (IPA) 
The phrase "sets off" is spelled with the letter "s" followed by "e," "t," "s," and "o" and "f," respectively. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is spelled /sɛts ɒf/. The first syllable "sets" is pronounced with an open "e" sound followed by a "t" sound and a short "s" sound. The second syllable "off" is pronounced with an open "o" sound and a short "f" sound. The phrase means to begin a journey or to ignite something.
Sets off is a phrasal verb that can have multiple meanings depending on the context.
One possible definition of "sets off" is to begin a journey or trip. In this sense, it implies the act of leaving a place and starting out towards a destination. For example, "After packing their bags, the family sets off on their vacation." This usage suggests the commencement of a physical movement from one place to another.
Another meaning of "sets off" is to trigger or start something, often referring to an event or a series of actions. It involves initiating a process or causing something to start. For instance, "The fireworks display sets off the celebrations for Independence Day." In this context, sets off denotes the beginning or initiation of the festivities through the commencement of the fireworks display.
Furthermore, sets off can also mean to emphasize or highlight a particular feature or quality. It refers to making something distinguishable or noticeable in comparison to its surroundings. For example, "Her brightly colored dress sets off her eyes." In this case, the dress enhances or accentuates the beauty or distinctiveness of her eyes by providing a contrasting effect.
Overall, "sets off" is a versatile phrasal verb that can describe the act of beginning a journey, initiating an event, or emphasizing a specific element. The exact meaning depends on the surrounding context and the intention of the speaker or writer.
The phrase "sets off" is derived from two separate words: "set" and "off".
1. Set: The word "set" has Old English roots, originating from the Old English verb "settan". It was influenced by Old Norse and Middle Low German. The word originally meant "to put in a particular place or position". Over time, it took on various meanings, such as "to place", "to establish", "to fix", or "to cause". In the phrase "sets off", the word "set" is used in its third-person singular form.
2. Off: The word "off" also has Old English origins, coming from the Old English preposition "of". It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "af", which has the same meaning. "Off" typically indicates separation, departure, or removal.
