set up

Short definition: The phrase set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use, operate, or begin, such as organizing equipment, establishing a business, or planning an event in advance.

Looking for a clear and natural explanation of the phrasal verb set up? This is one of the most widely used expressions in English and it appears in many everyday situations. It can mean arranging something, establishing a business or system, preparing equipment, or even causing someone to be blamed unfairly. Because it has several different meanings, the context of the sentence usually makes the intention clear. Below are detailed meanings with realistic examples so you can clearly understand how set up works in daily English.

set up v. /ˌset ˈʌp/

Forms: set up, sets up, set up, setting up
Related: arrange v., establish v., organize v., install v.
Syllable: set-up

(Verb) To arrange or organize something so that it can begin or function.
To set up most commonly means arranging or organizing something so that it is ready to begin, such as a meeting, event, or system.

She helped set up the conference room before the meeting started.

They set up a video call with the overseas team.

The company set up a new support system for customers.

Synonyms: arrange, organize, prepare, establish, plan, coordinate, assemble, install, structure, configure, initiate, launch
Antonyms: dismantle, cancel, disorganize, undo arrangement, shut down, remove structure, disrupt plan, destroy setup, break apart, stop preparation, abandon plan, halt process
(Verb) To start or establish a business or organization.
Set up can also mean creating or establishing something new, such as a company, organization, or official structure.

She set up her own design studio after leaving the company.

The charity was set up to support local communities.

They plan to set up a branch office in another city.

Synonyms: establish, found, create, launch business, start company, initiate organization, build enterprise, open venture, institute, organize formally, develop structure, begin operation
Antonyms: close business, dissolve organization, shut down company, abandon venture, dismantle enterprise, terminate operations, disband group, liquidate, withdraw business, collapse organization, end enterprise, abolish structure
(Verb) To prepare equipment or objects so they are ready to use.
In practical situations, set up often refers to preparing equipment, devices, or furniture so that they are ready for use.

He set up the camera before filming the video.

The technicians set up the sound system for the concert.

She set up her new computer in the office.

Synonyms: assemble, install, arrange equipment, prepare gear, position, mount, configure, connect devices, ready system, organize tools, deploy setup, arrange apparatus
Antonyms: pack away, dismantle, uninstall, disconnect, remove equipment, take apart, disassemble, shut down gear, detach components, store away, collapse setup, clear away
(Verb) To trick someone so they appear guilty or responsible for something they did not do.
In another meaning, set up can describe a situation where someone deliberately arranges events to make another person appear guilty or responsible for a problem or crime.

He claimed someone had set him up to take the blame.

The evidence suggested the suspect had been set up.

She insisted that her coworker was trying to set her up.

Synonyms: frame, trap, deceive, incriminate falsely, manipulate situation, plant evidence, blame unfairly, entrap, scheme against, falsely accuse, arrange betrayal, stage accusation
Antonyms: defend, protect, clear name, support, prove innocence, exonerate, vindicate, rescue reputation, reveal truth, defend reputation, absolve, justify

Conversation Using the Phrasal Verb Set up

Preparing for a tech conference, Liam and Chloe discuss the equipment. This dialogue explores set up, which means to organize or arrange something, to start a new business, or to prepare equipment for use.

Liam: We need to set up the main projector and the sound system before the first speaker arrives at nine o'clock tomorrow morning.

Chloe: I’ll set up the registration table; I noticed that we have over two hundred attendees expected for the opening session today.

Liam: I read that it can be quite challenging to set up a new business in a foreign country due to the different legal and tax regulations.

Chloe: I noticed that the IT team managed to set up a secure network for all the remote workers in less than forty-eight hours.

Liam: If you set up a recurring payment for your bills, you’ll never have to worry about missing a deadline or paying a late fee again.

Chloe: I saw a group of volunteers set up a temporary shelter for the people who were affected by the recent floods in the valley.

Liam: It’s a great idea to set up a meeting with your mentor once a month to discuss your career progress and any challenges you are facing.

Chloe: I agree; I’m going to set up my new workstation this afternoon so I can be much more productive during the upcoming work week.

Liam: I’m glad we managed to set up the venue so quickly; the space looks professional and everything is ready for the guests to arrive.

Chloe: Me too; once we set up the final few displays, we can finally take a short break and grab some lunch before the event starts.

Phrases Containing the Phrasal Verb Set Up

The phrases below show how the phrasal verb set up is used to talk about arranging, organizing, or establishing something.

Set up a meeting

To arrange an appointment.

We need to set up a meeting to discuss the new strategy in detail.

Set up a business

To establish a company.

She worked hard to set up a business that reflected her passion and skills.

Set up a system

To organize a structure.

The IT team set up a system to improve data security.

Set up an account

To create a profile or registration.

You need to set up an account before accessing the platform’s features.

Set up equipment

To prepare tools for use.

The crew arrived early to set up equipment before the event started.

Set up a plan

To create a strategy.

They set up a plan to achieve their long-term goals efficiently.

Set up a company

To establish an organization.

After years of experience, he decided to set up a company of his own.

Set up a call

To arrange a phone conversation.

Let’s set up a call to clarify the remaining details.

Set up a project

To organize work.

The manager set up a project timeline to track progress.

Set up a schedule

To arrange timing.

They set up a schedule to balance work and personal life.

Set up a device

To configure equipment.

He set up a device by following the instructions carefully.

Set up a workshop

To organize a learning session.

The organization set up a workshop to improve leadership skills.

Set up a presentation

To prepare visual materials.

She set up a presentation with clear slides and examples.

Set up a partnership

To establish cooperation.

The two companies set up a partnership to expand their market reach.

Set up a profile

To create personal information online.

He set up a profile to connect with professionals in his field.

Set up a camera

To prepare recording equipment.

The photographer set up a camera before the ceremony began.

Set up a foundation

To establish an institution.

They set up a foundation to support educational programs.

Set up a conference

To organize a formal event.

The committee set up a conference for industry leaders.

Set up a meeting room

To prepare a space.

Staff set up a meeting room with chairs, a projector, and refreshments.

Set up a network

To configure connections.

The technician set up a network that allowed seamless communication.

Words Rhyme with set up

bet up

get up

let up

met up

net up

pet up

wet up

debt up

threat up

forget up

cup

pup

sup

yup

hiccup

pickup

makeup

shakeup

breakup

wakeup

checkup

stickup

mockup

lockup

linkup

chin-up

windup

signup

blow-up

POS: Verb Phrase