setup
setup — verb
1. to lift something off the ground and put it somewhere above the floor, such as o
to lift something off the ground and put it somewhere above the floor, such as on a wall, shelf, or pole.
Zuri set the heavy mirror up on the wall above the fireplace.
separable: set + [object] + up
The workers set up a large sign above the entrance to the night market.
During the festival, volunteers set up flags on every rooftop in the village.
Reema asked her uncle to set up the new basketball hoop in the driveway.
common collocation: set up a hoop / sign / shelf
- set up a sign
- set up a flag
- set up a shelf
- set up a hoop
Grammar Patterns
set + [object] + up
set up + [object]
Usage Note
The object can go between 'set' and 'up' (set the mirror up) or after 'up' (set up the mirror). If the object is a pronoun, it must go between: set it up, NOT set up it.
Common Mistakes
2. to arrange goods, artwork, or other items in a visible place so that people can
to arrange goods, artwork, or other items in a visible place so that people can look at them or buy them.
The shop owner sets up a table of fresh fruit outside every morning.
Indra set her paintings up along the gallery wall for the weekend exhibition.
separable: set + [possessive] + [object] + up
Museum staff carefully set up ancient pottery inside glass cabinets.
The market sellers set their goods out on colourful blankets along the riverside path.
similar phrasal verb: set out = arrange for display
- set up a display
- set up a stall
- set up a table
- set up goods
- pack away
to put items back into storage after display
Grammar Patterns
set up + [object]
set + [object] + up (for display)
Usage Note
Often used in commercial or exhibition contexts. Can be confused with 'set out' which also means to arrange for display but tends to emphasise a neat, orderly arrangement.
3. to present an idea, plan, or suggestion to a person or group so that it can be d
to present an idea, plan, or suggestion to a person or group so that it can be discussed and perhaps agreed upon.
Iker set up a new plan for cutting energy costs at the factory.
The committee set up a few options for improving the local park.
Beatriz set up a schedule that gave everyone fair time off during the holidays.
common collocation: set up a schedule / plan / system
The students set up their idea for a recycling programme to the school principal.
- set up a plan
- set up a proposal
- set up a scheme
- set up a schedule
- propose
more formal; common in business meetings
- put forward
phrasal verb; same register and meaning
- suggest
less formal; implies less formal structure
- withdraw
to take back a proposal or suggestion
Grammar Patterns
set up + [plan/proposal/scheme]
Usage Note
Distinguish from sense 6 (CREATE): sense 3 is about presenting a plan for discussion; sense 6 is about bringing something into existence. The plan in sense 3 may or may not be adopted.
4. to put the parts of something together so that it stands firmly in an upright po
to put the parts of something together so that it stands firmly in an upright position and is ready to use.
Eve set the tent up in the backyard before the camping trip.
separable: set + [object] + up
The construction crew set up scaffolding around the old church tower.
Femi set up a small bookcase in the corner of his bedroom.
Volunteers set up tables and chairs in the hall for the charity dinner.
common collocation: set up tables and chairs
The crew set up the stage lighting an hour before the show began.
- set up a tent
- set up scaffolding
- set up tables
- set up equipment
Grammar Patterns
set up + [object]
set + [object] + up
Usage Note
Distinguish from sense 1 (RAISE HIGH): sense 1 focuses on height (lifting onto a wall or shelf), while sense 4 focuses on assembling an upright object (tent, bookcase, scaffolding) from its parts on the ground.
5. to change the controls or settings of a device or system so that it works in the
to change the controls or settings of a device or system so that it works in the way you need it to.
Rania set up the coffee machine to brew a fresh pot every morning.
Christopher set up the alarm system before the family left for holiday.
The sound engineer set up the volume levels for each microphone on stage.
Élise set up the timer on the oven before putting the cake inside.
common collocation: set up a timer / alarm / system
Zuri set up the video call so the Taipei office could join the meeting.
- set up a machine
- set up a device
- set up a system
- set up software
Grammar Patterns
set up + [device/machine/system]
set + [device] + up
Usage Note
The most frequent sense across all uses of 'set up'. The object is typically a device, machine, or software configuration. Unlike sense 4, the object may already be assembled but not yet configured correctly.
Common Mistakes
6. to bring something into existence by making the necessary arrangements, such as
to bring something into existence by making the necessary arrangements, such as a fund, business, committee, or system.
The charity set up a fund to help families whose homes were damaged.
common collocation: set up a fund
The university set up a scholarship for students from low-income backgrounds.
Beatriz set up a blog to share her Korean recipes with friends around the world.
The school set up a committee to look into better playground equipment.
Eri set up an online store to sell handmade jewellery from her home.
- set up a fund
- set up a committee
- set up a business
- set up a blog
- set up a scholarship
- close down
to end the operations of a business or organisation
- abolish
formal; to officially put an end to a system or institution
Grammar Patterns
set up + [fund/scholarship/committee/blog]
Usage Note
Distinguish from sibling sense 11 (verb/11: FOUND): sense 6 covers a wider range of creations (fund, blog, committee, store), while verb/11 focuses specifically on founding institutions such as a company, organisation, or city.
7. to place someone in a position of authority or give them an official role within
to place someone in a position of authority or give them an official role within an organization.
The board set up Ms. Okonkwo as the new director of finance.
setup + object + as + role: appointing to a position
The committee will set up a younger member to lead the project team.
Hoa was set up as the head of the new research unit at the university.
passive: be set up as [role]
The church set him up to serve as the community liaison for the annual festival.
setup + object + to-infinitive
- set up as director
- set up as head
- set up to lead
- set up to serve
- dismiss
to remove someone from a position
Grammar Patterns
setup + object + as + role
setup + object + to-infinitive
Usage Note
Frequently used in passive constructions ('be set up as') and often followed by a role or title. The object is the person receiving the position.
Common Mistakes
8. to bring two people together so that a romantic connection may develop between t
to bring two people together so that a romantic connection may develop between them; to act as a matchmaker.
Saira asked her best friend to set her up with someone from the yoga class.
setup + person + with + person: matchmaking pattern
Eve and Darius were set up by their coworkers at the holiday party.
passive: were set up by [matchmaker]
His aunt keeps trying to set him up with her neighbour's daughter.
I told my sister I was not interested in being set up again.
- set up with someone
- set up by a friend
- set up on a blind date
Grammar Patterns
setup + person + with + person
Usage Note
The matchmaker is the subject; the two potential partners are the object (one person) and the prepositional object (the other person) linked by 'with'.
Common Mistakes
9. to make someone feel happier, more confident, or proud after a period of sadness
to make someone feel happier, more confident, or proud after a period of sadness or low spirits.
Winning the student award really set Benjamin up for the rest of the term.
The surprise visit from her old classmates set Élise up and she smiled all evening.
A few kind words from the coach set the nervous player up before the match.
setup + object: cheering up or boosting confidence
Getting the promotion set him up so much that he called his mother right away.
- set up by praise
- set up after a loss
- set up by a compliment
- bring down
to make someone feel sad or discouraged
Grammar Patterns
setup + object
Usage Note
Often used in the context of a single event or compliment that changes someone's mood. The feeling can be pride, confidence, or general happiness — not necessarily from sadness.
10. to present or describe yourself as a particular type of person, especially one t
to present or describe yourself as a particular type of person, especially one that you want others to believe you are.
Andrés set himself up as an expert in traditional farming methods.
setup + reflexive + as: presenting oneself
The company set itself up as a leader in green technology.
After losing her teaching job, Maya set herself up as a private tutor.
Mizuki set herself up as the go-to person for translation work in the office.
- set oneself up as an expert
- set oneself up as a leader
- set oneself up as a consultant
- pose as
almost always implies false or exaggerated claims
- present oneself as
neutral; can be honest or deceptive
- claim to be
focuses on verbal assertion rather than overall presentation
Grammar Patterns
setup + reflexive pronoun + as + noun
Usage Note
Always used with a reflexive pronoun (myself, yourself, himself, herself, itself, ourselves, yourselves, themselves) followed by 'as'. Can describe honest self-promotion or false claims, depending on context.
11. to start or establish an organization, company, institution, or system — bringin
to start or establish an organization, company, institution, or system — bringing it into existence for the first time.
Hoa and her partners set up a small coffee shop near the train station.
setup + [business]: founding an enterprise
The charity was set up in 2018 to support children's education in rural areas.
passive: was set up in [year]
James set up a scholarship fund for students from low-income families.
The artists' cooperative set up an online platform where local artists could sell their work.
- set up a business
- set up a fund
- set up an organization
- set up a school
Grammar Patterns
setup + organization / institution
Usage Note
Can be distinguished from sense 11 (PLAN) by the result: this sense creates a lasting entity, while sense 11 creates a scheme or plan of action. The object is typically an organization, business, program, or system.
Common Mistakes
12. to plan or arrange something in careful detail beforehand, often in a way that i
to plan or arrange something in careful detail beforehand, often in a way that influences the outcome.
The whole event was set up to look like a spontaneous celebration.
passive: be set up to-infinitive, suggesting careful pre-planning
Obi set up a meeting between the two departments to resolve the dispute.
The interview questions were clearly set up to make the politician look bad.
Eitan set up a series of workshops to train new staff members.
- set up a meeting
- set up an interview
- set up a scheme
- set up to appear
- prearrange
formal; emphasizes that things were decided before the event
- orchestrate
suggests invisible control and coordination
- rig
negative connotation; implies dishonest manipulation
- improvise
to do things without advance preparation
Grammar Patterns
setup + object (plan / scheme)
be set up + to-infinitive
Usage Note
When used without an object ('everything is set up for tomorrow'), this sense overlaps with more general preparation senses (see verb_b4 senses). The key distinction: this sense emphasizes advance planning and design of a scenario or scheme.
13. to trick someone into appearing guilty of a crime or wrongdoing, often by placin
to trick someone into appearing guilty of a crime or wrongdoing, often by placing false evidence or arranging a deceptive situation.
Diego claimed his business partner had set him up to take the blame for the missing money.
The police discovered that someone had set up the suspect by putting stolen goods in his car.
passive or active: set + person + up + by + [method]
Luca realized the whole deal was a trick to set him up for a crime.
set + person + up + for + [crime]
Tanvi worried that her colleague was trying to set her up as the one responsible for the accounting error.
In the movie, the hero is set up by a corrupt official and thrown into prison.
- set someone up for a crime
- set someone up as the culprit
- set someone up with evidence
- deliberately / intentionally set up
- frame
more direct and common in crime contexts; no preposition needed
- entrap
formal, used mainly in legal contexts
- incriminate falsely
clinical register; less common in everyday speech
- exonerate
to prove someone is innocent
Grammar Patterns
set + object + up
be set up (passive)
Usage Note
Frequently used in the passive voice (be set up) when the focus is on the victim. The object must be a person; the means of deception is introduced with by or for.
Common Mistakes
14. to give someone the money, property, or practical resources they need to live in
to give someone the money, property, or practical resources they need to live independently or begin a new stage of life.
Nala's uncle set her up in a small apartment near the university so she could focus on her studies.
set + person + up + in + [place]
After the fire destroyed their home, the community raised money to set the family up in a new place.
Lisa's parents set her up with enough savings to start her own business after graduation.
set + person + up + with + [resource]
Yan used his inheritance to set his younger brother up as the owner of a small grocery store.
- set someone up in business
- set someone up with a loan
- set someone up in a house / apartment
- set someone up for life
Grammar Patterns
set + object + up + with/in/as
Usage Note
The preposition following up (with / in / as) signals the type of provision: with introduces resources, in introduces a location, as introduces a role or position.
15. to help someone regain their physical strength or mental well-being after illnes
to help someone regain their physical strength or mental well-being after illness, injury, or exhaustion.
A week of rest and good food set Diego up after his long battle with the flu.
The mountain air and daily walks set Eli up better than any medicine could have.
set + person + up (no object separator)
After the surgery, the nurses set Théo up with a careful diet and gentle daily exercise.
set + person + up + with + [therapy / regimen]
The hot springs and fresh food set the tired hikers up within just a few days.
- set someone up with rest
- set someone up after an illness
- set someone up for recovery
- revive
suggests bringing back from near-collapse
- restore
broader; can apply to health, order, or confidence
- rehabilitate
formal; implies a structured program of recovery
- weaken
to make someone less strong or healthy
Grammar Patterns
set + object + up
set + object + up + with/in
Usage Note
Close in meaning to sense 9 (CHEER UP), which focuses on emotional mood. This sense focuses on physical or overall health recovery. The subject is often rest, treatment, or care, not a person.
Common Mistakes
16. to make someone develop a strong, well-shaped body through regular physical trai
to make someone develop a strong, well-shaped body through regular physical training or military drill.
The army sergeant set the new recruits up with daily runs and weight sessions.
set + person + up + with + [training routine]
Three months of boot camp set Sven up with a lean, muscular frame he had never had before.
The coach set the team up by having them swim laps every morning before practice.
Dario's personal trainer set him up with a strict routine of push-ups and pull-ups.
- set someone up with exercise
- set someone up through drill
- set someone up as a soldier / athlete
- condition
focuses on fitness for a specific purpose (sport, military)
- shape up
informal; can be reflexive
- transform physically
descriptive rather than a direct synonym
Grammar Patterns
set + object + up + with + [exercise]
set + object + up as + [athlete/soldier]
Usage Note
Subject is typically a training programme, drill instructor, or coach. The object is a person, and the result is a physically fit appearance. Distinguish from sense 15 (RESTORE HEALTH), which addresses recovery rather than fitness-building.
17. in team sports, to position players or run planned moves in order to create a ch
in team sports, to position players or run planned moves in order to create a chance to score points.
The quarterback set up a quick pass to the wide receiver to gain the winning yards.
Sofia set up the final shot by passing the ball to her teammate near the basket.
set up + [play / shot / pass] as object
The coach set up a play that sent two runners toward the goal from different directions.
With seconds left, Liam set up a corner kick aimed directly at the tallest defender.
- set up a play
- set up a pass
- set up a shot
- set up an attack
- arrange
more general; lacks the sports-play specificity
- orchestrate
suggests careful coordination of multiple players
Grammar Patterns
set up + [play / pass / shot]
set + object + up
Usage Note
The object is a plan or play, not a person. To express that a player enables a teammate to score, use sense 17 of the phrasal verb 'set up' (not covered here).
Common Mistakes
18. in technical drawing or geometry, to draw a straight line or geometric shape tha
in technical drawing or geometry, to draw a straight line or geometric shape that rises from a given base line at a fixed angle.
To begin the diagram, Harper set up a vertical line from the midpoint of the base.
The architect showed the students how to set up a perpendicular from the given baseline using only a compass.
set up + [geometric figure] + from + [baseline]
Noor carefully set up a triangle on the horizontal line using a ruler and compass.
For the exam, students had to set up a rectangle on a given base line.
- set up a perpendicular
- set up a figure on a base
- set up a vertical line
Grammar Patterns
set up + [line / figure / perpendicular] + on + [base]
Usage Note
Almost exclusively found in geometry textbooks and technical drawing instructions. The object is always a line or geometric figure (perpendicular, triangle, rectangle), never a person or machine.
19. to pull a rope, cable, strap, or similar object until it is straight, tight, and
to pull a rope, cable, strap, or similar object until it is straight, tight, and has no looseness.
Theo set up the slack line between the two trees until it was firm.
set up + line/rope (make tight)
Before the storm hit, the crew set up every rigging line on the boat.
Élise set up the clothesline so tightly that the towels hung without sagging.
set up + clothesline (tighten)
The circus worker set up the tightrope by pulling the cable slowly.
Once the tent was up, Diya set up the guide ropes near each corner peg.
set up + guide ropes (secure tightly)
- set up a rope
- set up a line
- set up rigging
- set up a tent rope
- set up a clothesline
- set up a slack line
- loosen
the opposite action
Grammar Patterns
set up + object (rope, cable, line)
set up + noun phrase + until/before + clause
Usage Note
Common in nautical, camping, and outdoor contexts. The object is always a flexible line or strap that can be tightened.
Common Mistakes
20. to pay for food, drinks, or entertainment for another person or a group as a gen
to pay for food, drinks, or entertainment for another person or a group as a generous or celebratory act.
After the big sale closed, Kevin set up the whole team for a dinner downtown.
set up + someone + for + something (treat)
Dario set up the bar for everyone who stayed late to help clean up.
When Yara got her promotion, she set up her friends for drinks at the rooftop lounge.
set up + someone + for + noun phrase
The retiring professor set up coffee and pastries for the whole department.
Chidi set up a round of milkshakes for the kids after the soccer game.
set up + object + for + someone
- set up the bar
- set up drinks
- set up dinner
- set up a round
- set up coffee
- set up the team
Grammar Patterns
set up + object (drinks, meal)
set up + someone
set up + someone + for + something
Usage Note
Informal and often used in bar, restaurant, or social settings. The person paying is usually celebrating an achievement or showing generosity.
21. to prepare a room, area, or outdoor space for an event or activity by placing ch
to prepare a room, area, or outdoor space for an event or activity by placing chairs, tables, equipment, and other items in their correct positions.
The volunteers set up the hall for the charity dinner with long tables and flowers.
set up + space + for + event
Beatriz set up the meeting room with a screen, a projector, and name cards.
Before the wedding, the staff set up for the outdoor reception near the garden.
intransitive: set up + for + event
Ari and Noa set up the stage with microphones and music stands.
The market traders set up their stalls at dawn every Saturday morning.
set up + stall/booth (prepare space)
- set up a room
- set up a hall
- set up a stage
- set up a stall
- set up for a wedding
- set up for a meeting
Grammar Patterns
set up + object (room, stage, hall)
set up + for + event (intransitive)
Usage Note
Distinguish from sense 5 (ADJUST MACHINE), which focuses on configuring a device. This sense focuses on arranging furniture, decorations, or spatial elements for an event.
22. to start a business, shop, professional practice, or other operation, often afte
to start a business, shop, professional practice, or other operation, often after completing necessary training or preparation.
After five years of training, Gabriela set up as a dentist in a coastal town.
set up + as + profession
Hiro set up in business as a wedding photographer last spring.
The two brothers set up as electricians after finishing their course together.
set up + as + plural profession
Sophia set up as a freelance translator from a small home office.
Many young chefs dream of setting up on their own one day.
set up + on one's own
- set up as a lawyer
- set up as a doctor
- set up in business
- set up on one's own
- set up in practice
- set up shop
Grammar Patterns
set up + as + profession
set up + in + business/field
set up + on one's own
Usage Note
Distinguish from sense 11 (FOUND OR INAUGURATE), which focuses on creating an institution or organization. Sense 22 focuses on an individual starting a professional practice or trade.
23. to claim or behave as though one has a particular skill, quality, or social posi
to claim or behave as though one has a particular skill, quality, or social position, often when this claim is exaggerated or unwarranted.
Jude set up as a financial expert, though he had never managed his own savings.
set up + as + noun phrase (pretend to be)
A man set up for a nobleman and tricked the villagers into giving him money.
Reema set up as a traditional healer without any training in herbal medicine.
set up + as + role (insincere claim)
The author set up for a great scholar, but critics found his work shallow.
Defne set up as an interior designer, but her first project was a failure.
- set up as an expert
- set up as a specialist
- set up for a gentleman
- set up for a scholar
- set up as a judge
Grammar Patterns
set up + as + noun phrase
set up + for + noun phrase
Usage Note
Often carries a negative or skeptical tone, implying the claim is exaggerated. Distinguish from sense 10 (PRESENT ONESELF AS), which is neutral and describes how someone genuinely presents their identity.
24. to become firm, solid, or rigid through cooling, drying, or a chemical process s
to become firm, solid, or rigid through cooling, drying, or a chemical process such as setting.
The concrete set up within a few hours after being poured into the mould.
intransitive: set up (become solid)
The gelatin dessert set up overnight in the refrigerator.
The glue needs at least twenty minutes to set up before the pieces hold together.
set up + time (duration to harden)
Lotte waited for the candle wax to set up before removing the mould.
The plaster set up faster than expected in the warm workshop.
set up + adverb (speed of hardening)
- concrete sets up
- jelly sets up
- glue sets up
- plaster sets up
- wax sets up
- cement sets up
Grammar Patterns
set up (no object)
set up + in/within + time period
Usage Note
Common in materials science, cooking, and craft contexts. The subject is always a substance that undergoes a phase change from liquid or semi-liquid to solid.
Common Mistakes
setup — noun
1. the work of making a device, tool, or machine ready so that it can start doing i
the work of making a device, tool, or machine ready so that it can start doing its job
The setup of the new camera took Pim about twenty minutes before he could start filming.
collocation: setup of [device/equipment]
Liang carefully checked the setup of the sound system before the concert began.
The manual explains the correct setup for the printer step by step.
collocation: correct setup for [device]
A proper setup of the microscope saves time and prevents mistakes during the experiment.
Chiara finished the setup of the stage lights just before the actors arrived.
- setup of the machine
- proper setup
- initial setup
- setup process
- installation
focuses on putting something in place rather than adjusting it
- preparation
broader; can apply to non-mechanical contexts
- configuration
more technical; emphasises how settings are arranged
Grammar Patterns
the setup of + noun
a + adjective + setup
Usage Note
Frequently followed by 'of' to name the device or system being prepared. Both countable (a complicated setup) and uncountable (during setup) uses are common.
Common Mistakes
2. a planned move or series of moves in a sport that helps a teammate try to score
a planned move or series of moves in a sport that helps a teammate try to score
The point guard made a perfect setup that allowed his teammate to score easily.
sports: setup as a scoring assist
Heloísa's quick setup caught the other team off guard and led to a goal.
Coaches often practice the setup for corner kicks during training sessions.
collocation: setup for [specific play]
Ezra passed the ball in a clever setup that surprised everyone in the stadium.
- perfect setup
- quick setup
- create a setup
- setup for a goal
Grammar Patterns
a + adjective + setup
setup + that-clause
Usage Note
Most common in basketball, football (soccer), and hockey. Closely parallels the verb sense of setting up a teammate to score.
3. the arrangement of balls on a pool or billiards table that gives a player a good
the arrangement of balls on a pool or billiards table that gives a player a good chance to score
Amani's shot left the balls in a perfect setup for the next player.
billiards/pool: setup as ball position
Kemi studied the table setup before deciding where to hit the cue ball.
An experienced player knows how to create a good setup for the next turn.
collocation: create a good setup
The setup let Eitan sink three balls with one well-aimed shot.
- table setup
- good setup
- leave a setup
- perfect setup
Grammar Patterns
a + adjective + setup
in a + adjective + setup
Usage Note
Restricted to billiards, pool, snooker, and similar cue sports. Not used for ball position in other sports.
4. a task or competition that has been made easy on purpose so someone will succeed
a task or competition that has been made easy on purpose so someone will succeed
The exam felt like a setup because the questions came from the study guide.
informal: 'felt like a setup' meaning unfairly easy
People believed the contest was a setup to help the local team win.
Winning the first match was a setup, but later games were much harder.
contrast: was a setup vs was harder
Layla called the test a setup after seeing how simple the questions were.
- felt like a setup
- was a setup
- look like a setup
- called it a setup
- challenge
a difficult task that tests one's abilities
Grammar Patterns
be a + setup
look/feel like a + setup
Usage Note
Common in informal speech. Often follows the structure 'be/look/feel like a setup' to express that something seems too easy to be fair.
Common Mistakes
5. a dishonest plan or scheme that someone has arranged secretly
a dishonest plan or scheme that someone has arranged secretly
Christopher realized the business deal was a setup to steal his money.
collocation: a setup to [do something]
The police discovered the robbery was a setup by someone inside the bank.
Sana refused to sign because she suspected a setup behind the offer.
verb phrase: suspect a setup
What looked like a generous offer turned out to be a clever setup.
- a setup to steal
- suspect a setup
- clever setup
- elaborate setup
- scheme
broader; can be neutral or negative depending on context
- plot
suggests a secret plan involving multiple people
- conspiracy
stronger; implies an illegal or harmful plan
- trap
focuses on the act of catching someone rather than the plan itself
Grammar Patterns
be a + setup
a setup to + infinitive
suspect a + setup
Usage Note
The noun refers to the scheme itself, while the verb 'set up' can describe the act of planning it. Often used in crime and business contexts.
Common Mistakes
6. the opening section of a tale, comedy bit, or presentation that provides backgro
the opening section of a tale, comedy bit, or presentation that provides background details before the main point
The comedian spent two minutes on the setup before delivering the funny punchline.
contrast: setup vs punchline in a joke
The setup of the story introduces a young girl who finds a mysterious key.
collocation: setup of the story
A good joke needs a short setup that makes the audience curious.
After a long setup, the plot finally took an unexpected turn.
Amira remembered the setup of the movie but had forgotten how it ended.
- long setup
- short setup
- setup of the story
- setup and punchline
- introduction
more formal; used in essays and speeches
- lead-in
informal; emphasises that the part leads to something else
- premise
focuses on the core idea rather than the background exposition
Grammar Patterns
the + setup + of + noun
a + adjective + setup
Usage Note
Most commonly contrasted with 'punchline' in comedy or 'payoff' in storytelling. Can apply to any narrative form — films, books, jokes, or stand-up routines.
Common Mistakes
7. the particular way that the different parts of a system, machine, or organizatio
the particular way that the different parts of a system, machine, or organization are placed and connected so that everything works together
The office setup places all the desks near the windows for natural light.
collocation: office setup / network setup
Hiro changed the setup of the classroom so that students sat in small groups.
The company's IT setup includes two servers and a backup system.
collocation: IT setup / computer setup
Gabriel prefers a simple setup for his home recording studio with just one microphone.
A good kitchen setup puts the stove, sink, and fridge close together.
- office setup
- IT setup
- setup of the system
- basic setup
- current setup
- configuration
more technical; used for computers and electronics
- layout
emphasises the physical arrangement of space rather than how parts work together
- structure
broader; can apply to organisations and abstract systems
Grammar Patterns
the + setup + of + noun
a + adjective + setup
Usage Note
Can describe physical layouts (office, computer system) or abstract structures (organisational hierarchy, software architecture). Often follows 'the setup of + noun'.
Common Mistakes
8. a piece of work, business deal, or event that someone has organised and plans to
a piece of work, business deal, or event that someone has organised and plans to do
Tunde told us about his new business setup selling handmade furniture online.
collocation: business setup
The whole setup for the charity run took three months of planning.
Cyrus is working on a setup to bring clean water to the mountain village.
pattern: a setup to [infinitive — purpose]
Caio explained his setup for launching a new app by the end of the year.
- new setup
- business setup
- a setup to raise money
- organise a setup
- project
more formal and concrete; implies clear goals and timeline
- undertaking
more formal; suggests something large or difficult
- venture
often used for business projects with financial risk
Grammar Patterns
a + setup + to + infinitive
Usage Note
Common in informal business or personal contexts to refer to a project that someone is actively organising. Slightly vaguer than 'project' or 'plan'; often implies the person is still getting things ready.
9. a dishonest plan that makes an innocent person appear guilty of a crime or wrong
a dishonest plan that makes an innocent person appear guilty of a crime or wrongdoing so that they get into trouble
Megan insisted that someone had planted the stolen watch in her bag as a setup.
collocation: be a setup / as a setup
Diya proved the drug test results were part of a deliberate setup by her rival.
The lawyer argued that the evidence against his client was a total setup from start to finish.
law context: argue [something] is a setup
Eleni refused to sign the confession because she knew it was a setup by her rivals.
- deliberate setup
- total setup
- plant evidence as a setup
- claim it was a setup
- frame-up
identical meaning; written with a hyphen for emphasis
- conspiracy
broader; implies multiple people working together, not necessarily against one person
- trap
focuses on the act of catching someone rather than making them look guilty
- acquittal
a court decision that someone is not guilty
Grammar Patterns
be a + setup
a setup to + infinitive
Usage Note
Distinguish from noun sense 5 (PLOT OR SCHEME), which covers any dishonest plan. This sense specifically involves making someone appear guilty of something they did not do. Common in legal drama and crime reporting.
Common Mistakes
10. the fixed place where a camera is positioned to film a particular shot during a
the fixed place where a camera is positioned to film a particular shot during a movie, TV show, or photograph
Tuan adjusted the camera setup to capture the sunset behind the mountains.
collocation: camera setup
The director asked for a different setup so that the actor's face was fully visible.
Felix moved the camera setup closer to the window for better lighting on the model.
Each camera setup took about fifteen minutes to arrange before filming could begin.
pattern: each camera setup took [time] to arrange
Élise marked each camera setup with tape on the floor for the crew to find fast.
- camera setup
- different setup
- change the setup
- set up a camera setup
- camera position
more literal and transparent in meaning
- shot
refers to the final image recorded, not the physical placement of the camera
- angle
focuses on the direction of the camera rather than its location
Grammar Patterns
a + adjective + setup
from/across/in a + setup
Usage Note
Used on film and television sets. Each 'setup' refers to one camera position for one shot; a scene may require multiple setups. Different from sense 11 (STAGE SET), which refers to the scenery itself rather than the camera position.
11. the way that furniture, objects, and background items are placed on a stage or f
the way that furniture, objects, and background items are placed on a stage or film set to create the look of a specific place for a scene
Linh helped build the stage setup that turned the theater into a rainforest.
domain: stage setup in theater
The setup for the dinner scene included a long wooden table and six chairs.
collocation: setup for [specific scene]
Hiro painted the backdrop as part of the outdoor market setup for the school play.
Between acts, the crew changed the entire stage setup in less than five minutes.
Gabriel checked each prop in the hospital room setup before the actors came on stage.
- stage setup
- the setup of the scene
- change the setup
- elaborate setup
- set
shorter form; used interchangeably in theater and film contexts
- scenery
focuses on the painted backdrop or landscape elements rather than furniture
- stage design
broader; includes lighting and overall artistic vision
Grammar Patterns
the + setup + of + noun
a + adjective + setup
Usage Note
Refers specifically to the visual arrangement on stage or in front of a camera. Unlike sense 7 (ARRANGEMENT), which describes functional layouts, this sense is about creating a believable fictional setting. The crew that builds it is called the 'set design' department.
12. the complete arrangement of plates, bowls, glasses, and cutlery placed on a dini
the complete arrangement of plates, bowls, glasses, and cutlery placed on a dining table for one person to eat a meal
Tunde placed a soup bowl to the left of each dinner setup.
collocation: table setup / each setup
The restaurant uses a three-fork setup for its formal dinner service.
Diya checked every table setup before the wedding guests arrived for the meal.
collocation: table setup
A proper wine setup includes a glass for red and a narrower one for white wine.
Cyrus folded the napkins into swans for the holiday dinner setup at home.
- table setup
- dinner setup
- formal setup
- each setup
- check the setup
- place setting
more common in American English; equally standard
- cover
professional restaurant term for one diner's complete setup
Grammar Patterns
a + adjective + setup
the + setup + for + noun
Usage Note
Common in restaurant, catering, and hospitality settings. Each diner's place is one 'setup'. Can also be called a 'place setting' in American English.
Common Mistakes
13. a service in which a bar or restaurant provides a glass, ice, and a non-alcoholi
a service in which a bar or restaurant provides a glass, ice, and a non-alcoholic drink to customers who bring their own bottle of liquor
The club charges $15 for a setup, so we brought our own bottle of whiskey.
collocation: charge for a setup
Anthony ordered a setup with tonic water and a slice of lime.
The bartender brought Chidi a setup of ice, soda water, and a highball glass.
At the jazz lounge, a setup costs eight dollars and comes with fresh lime.
Many customers bring their own tequila and just pay for the setup.
collocation: pay for the setup
- charge for a setup
- pay for a setup
- order a setup
- bring your own bottle
- mixers
refers only to the non-alcoholic drinks, not the glass or ice
Usage Note
Mainly found in US bars and restaurants that offer BYOB (bring your own bottle) service. The customer brings a full bottle of liquor; the venue supplies the glass, ice, and mixers.
Common Mistakes
14. the way a person stands or positions their body, including the straightness of t
the way a person stands or positions their body, including the straightness of the back and the placement of the shoulders and feet
The dance teacher corrected Asher's setup by pulling his shoulders back.
Lakan's confident setup — straight back, chin up — made him look like a soldier.
collocation: confident setup
A good golf setup starts with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent.
collocation: golf setup
The physiotherapist told Ada that her sitting setup was putting pressure on her lower back.
Boxers learn the correct setup from day one: feet apart, fists up, weight forward.
- confident setup
- correct setup
- sitting setup
- golf setup
- improve your setup
- slouch
a poor or relaxed posture, opposite of an intentional, correct setup
Usage Note
Commonly used in sports coaching (golf, boxing, tennis) and physical therapy. Often refers to the starting position before a movement or action.
Common Mistakes
15. the set of natural qualities, abilities, and weaknesses that form the basic char
the set of natural qualities, abilities, and weaknesses that form the basic character of a person or the basic structure of a thing
Hyun's emotional setup makes him quick to anger but also quick to forgive.
collocation: emotional setup
The psychological setup of the character in the novel is shaped by a difficult childhood.
Darius's genetic setup includes a rare trait that lets him digest lactose easily.
collocation: genetic setup
The mental setup of a successful entrepreneur includes a high tolerance for risk.
Élise's whole emotional setup changed after she started therapy and learned to manage stress.
- emotional setup
- genetic setup
- mental setup
- psychological setup
- basic setup
- constitution
more formal; often used for physical or mental health (a strong constitution)
- makeup
slightly less formal; very close in meaning to this sense of setup
- nature
emphasizes inborn qualities rather than learned traits
Usage Note
Frequently used with adjectives describing a domain (emotional, genetic, mental, psychological). Refers to inherent or long-term characteristics, not temporary states.
Common Mistakes
Word family
- set upverb phraseB1
- set-uppernounC2
Synonym discussion
Sense: verb/5
"Set up" covers a wide range of meanings that other verbs split more narrowly. For the adjusting/readying sense (verb/5): **arrange** focuses on putting items in a deliberate order ("arrange the chairs in a circle"), while **organize** suggests creating a structured system from separate parts ("organize the files by date"), and **configure** is more technical, used for devices or software settings. For the "found" sense (verb/11): **establish** is more formal and implies lasting legitimacy ("establish a university"), whereas **found** specifically means creating an institution from scratch ("found a hospital"). For the "prepare" sense (verb/8): **prepare** is broader and often suggests mental readiness; "set up" implies arranging the physical or logistical conditions first. In everyday speech, "set up" is the most versatile but least precise; use **arrange** when order matters, **organize** when structure matters, and **establish** when permanence matters. Example: "I set up the projector" vs "I arranged the seating" vs "I organized the agenda" vs "I established a new policy."
Common collocations
Phrases
- set up shop
- set up home
- set up camp
- set up house
- the whole setup
- a similar setup
- the basic setup
Etymology
The verb phrase "set up" dates back to Middle English (1200s), combining the verb "set" (to put in place) with the adverb "up" (into an upright or ready position). The noun "setup" emerged in the mid-1800s as a closed compound, first referring to the arrangement of equipment or a theatrical stage, and later expanding into figurative meanings such as a scheme or a person's inherent makeup.