B1noun1K

Setting

UK /["/ˈsetɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈsetɪŋ/"]/

Definition

an environment where something is located; the place at which something happens

In simple words: The place and time where a story happens.

Examples

  • The setting of the story takes place in a small coastal town.
  • She adjusted the setting on her camera for better lighting.
  • The concert had a beautiful outdoor setting under the stars.
  • In the setting for the dinner, they used elegant decorations.
  • The setting of a chess game is crucial for strategic planning.
  • He provided the perfect setting for their first date, including candles and music.
  • The scientist changed the setting of the experiment to gather different results.

Usage notes

Typically used in storytelling, literature, and film to describe the environment of a narrative. Avoid in very casual conversations unless discussing stories or movies.

Grammar pattern

setting + noun (e.g., setting the scene)

Memory hint

Think of a film set where everything is arranged for a scene.

Collocations

  • natural
  • attractive
  • beautiful
  • create
  • make
  • provide
  • in a/​the…setting
  • setting for
  • setting in
  • natural
  • attractive
  • beautiful
  • create
  • make
  • provide
  • in a/​the…setting
  • setting for
  • setting in
  • high
  • low
  • medium
  • adjust
  • alter
  • change
  • at a/​the setting

Synonyms

  • environment
  • background
  • locale
  • scene
  • surroundings

Antonyms

  • dismantling
  • removal
  • displacement

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'setting' with 'setting up' (which means preparing something)
  • Using 'setting' as a verb instead of a noun
  • Mixing up 'setting' with 'place' in contexts