English Idioms

Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms

All set

Meaning

The idiom "all set" means that everything is ready or prepared for something to happen. It can also mean that someone or something is fully equipped, organized, or ready to go.

Usage

  • I have all my materials ready, so I am all set for the exam tomorrow. In this context, "all set" means that the speaker has everything they need and is therefore prepared for the exam.
  • We're going on a road trip tomorrow, and we've got all the supplies, so we're all set! Here, "all set" means that the group has gathered all necessary items for the road trip and is now ready to go.
  • I'm not feeling well today, but I have everything I need to get through work. I'm all set! In this sentence, "all set" means that despite not feeling well, the speaker has what they need to manage their workday effectively.
  • The team has been practicing for weeks and is fully prepared for the game tomorrow. They're all set! Here, "all set" means that the team has practiced enough and is now ready to compete in the game.
  • I'm going to start a new job next month, and I have all my qualifications and experience, so I'm all set! In this context, "all set" means that the speaker has the necessary qualifications and experience for their new job and is therefore ready to begin it.

Roots and History

The idiom "all set" originated in the United States during the early 20th century. It likely comes from the phrase "all set to go," which meant that someone was prepared or eager to do something. Over time, the meaning of the idiom has evolved to include a sense of being fully equipped or organized, rather than just prepared for an action.

Synonyms in English

  • Ready to go - This idiom means that someone is prepared to do something and is ready to proceed.
  • On the ball - This idiom means that someone is quick and efficient at getting things done. It can also imply being well-organized or having everything under control.
  • Spot on - This idiom means that something or someone is exactly as it should be, often in terms of accuracy or efficiency. It can also suggest that someone is fully prepared for something.

Synonyms in other languages

  • De rijke (Dutch) - This idiom means "to be well-prepared" or "to have everything in order." It can also imply being organized or having a lot of resources available.
  • El estado perfecto (Spanish) - This idiom means "the perfect state" or "perfectly ready for something." It can also suggest being fully equipped or organized.
  • Il est tout prêt à l'oeuvre (French) - This idiom means "to be entirely prepared for work" or "ready to start working." It can also imply having everything under control or being highly efficient.
  • Lei è tutta predisposta (Italian) - This idiom means "everything is ready" or "all set for something." It can also suggest being well-prepared or fully equipped.
  • Vyprávit se (Czech) - This idiom means "to be sure of oneself" or "to know what to do." It can also imply being well-organized or having everything under control.

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