set in motion | put in motion
Meaning(s)
1. start
Popularity
High
Professional
High
Social
How to Memorize
set things in motion, put a plan in motion
Analysis
If you 'set something in motion' it means to take the first step in starting something working or moving. If you set or put something in motion you trigger or influence a series of events. This idiom comes from the expression 'set the wheels in motion' which suggests beginning to move things forward with a project or plan. You were here this used often in the expression 'let's set this plan in motion' where it is used to authorise or encourage the beginning of something. This expression is probably more likely to be used in professional contexts.
Social Examples (Advance)
- Okay, everyone, we need to put a plan in motion to deal with these problems.
- When the tree fell down on the road, it set in motion a chain of events that led to a car crash.
Professional Examples (Basic)
- We need to set the wheels in motion for a successful product launch that will get lots of media and celebrity attention.
- I'd advise waiting for a week or two before setting this plan in motion to make sure everything you need is in place.