SET FOOT IN

"To set foot in a new place is not merely a physical action but an invitation to new experiences and growth."

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb 'set foot in' means to enter or arrive at a place, often used to describe the first time someone goes somewhere.

Examples in context

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb 'set foot in' means to enter or arrive at a place, often used to describe the first time someone goes somewhere.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable
No
The verb and particle cannot be separated.
Register
Neutral
Suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
Transitive
Yes
Requires a noun or pronoun as an object.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple set foot in She set foot in the gallery for the first time.
Past Simple set foot in The explorers set foot in the ancient ruins.
Present Continuous setting foot in He is setting foot in new territories each week.
Present Perfect have set foot in They have set foot in many countries during their travels.

💡 When to Use

Entering a new place
Use when someone physically enters a place, particularly emphasizing the novelty or significance of the action.
Example: "They set foot in their new home with excitement."
Arriving for the first time
Appropriate for highlighting the first-time experience of entering a particular location or environment.
Example: "He set foot in the city for the first time yesterday."
Symbolic arrival
Can convey a more metaphorical entry into situations or phases, denoting a significant beginning.
Example: "The artist set foot in the realm of digital art with their latest exhibition."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Wrong particle
❌ Wrong: She set foot on the museum for the first time.
✅ Correct: She set foot in the museum for the first time.
💡 Tip: Remember: you set foot 'in' not 'on' places.
Plural subject-verb agreement
❌ Wrong: They sets foot in the church every Sunday.
✅ Correct: They set foot in the church every Sunday.
💡 Tip: Use 'set' as it remains the same for plural subjects.
Incorrect verb form
❌ Wrong: I setting foot in the park each morning.
✅ Correct: I set foot in the park each morning.
💡 Tip: Use the base form 'set' for routine actions.
Practice

SET FOOT IN - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

  1. Listen and repeat the audio as many times as needed to improve your pronunciation
  2. Use the audio as a dictation exercise, trying to write what you hear and understand
  3. Create a new sentence following the structure of the example sentences

Examples in Context

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

enter arrive

Antonyms

leave

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"The ancient explorer was the first to ___ foot in the sacred valley."

step
set foot in
walk
land

Frequently Asked Questions about Set Foot In

What is the origin of set foot in?

+
This phrasal verb dates back to the 16th century, derived from the literal act of placing one's foot within a specific boundary or area, commonly used in maritime contexts.

Can set foot in be used in formal and informal contexts?

+
Yes, 'set foot in' is suited for both formal and informal contexts. Its versatility makes it appropriate for academic writing as well as casual conversation.

What is the difference between set foot in and enter?

+
While both 'set foot in' and 'enter' convey the act of going into a place, 'set foot in' often carries a connotation of being momentous or notable.
Browse All The World In Your Pocket Phrasal Verbs
Human Communication Phrasal Verbs - WeeklyCross
Alessandra Nóbrega
About the Author

Alessandra Nóbrega

History teacher who fell in love with English! This passion led me to specialize in languages and work on bilingual education projects. With 37 years in education, I believe learning should be meaningful – not just memorization.

Learn more about my journey



0%
Scroll to Top