Translation guide
The phrasal verb "set out" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses: starting a journey, arranging or displaying items, explaining or stating something clearly, and intending to do something.
To begin a trip or journey, especially on foot or by vehicle.
The most general and neutral way to say 'set out' for a journey. Suitable for any mode of travel.
私たちは早朝に出発した。
We set out early in the morning.
Literally 'depart on a journey'. More literary or emotional, often used for significant journeys or new phases of life.
彼は新たな冒険に旅立った。
He set out on a new adventure.
A casual, everyday word for 'go out' or 'set off'. Often used for short trips or errands.
買い物に出かけよう。
Let's set out to do some shopping.
To place things in an organized way, often for a specific purpose or to make them visible.
To arrange or line up objects. Transitive verb. Use this when you are putting things in order or displaying them.
彼女はテーブルに料理を並べた。
She set out the food on the table.
To display goods or items, often in a store or exhibition. More formal than 並べる.
新商品が店頭に陳列された。
The new products were set out in the store.
To prepare or set out things in readiness. Focuses on the preparation aspect rather than the visual arrangement.
会議の資料を用意した。
I set out the materials for the meeting.
To present ideas, arguments, or plans in a clear and organized manner, often in writing or speech.
To state or express. Commonly used for setting out opinions, reasons, or plans.
彼は自分の考えを明確に述べた。
He set out his ideas clearly.
To explain. Use when 'set out' means to explain something in detail.
契約の条件を詳しく説明した。
I set out the terms of the contract in detail.
To present or propose. Often used in formal contexts like business or academia.
新しい戦略を提示した。
We set out a new strategy.
To have a specific aim or intention when starting an activity.
A grammar pattern meaning 'to try to do' or 'to set out to do'. Attach to the volitional form of a verb.
彼は世界記録を破ろうとした。
He set out to break the world record.
Literally 'start with the intention of ~'. Emphasizes the initial intention.
彼女は成功するつもりで事業を始めた。
She set out to succeed in business.
To aim for. Use when the focus is on the goal itself.
Do not translate 'set out' word-for-word. Japanese uses different verbs depending on the meaning (journey, arrangement, explanation, intention). Using the wrong one can cause confusion.
He studied, setting out to become a doctor.