set about

/sɛt əˌbaʊt/

/sɛt əˈbaʊt/

Other forms: sets about; setting about

Definitions of set about

1. verb

   begin to deal with
   synonyms: approach, go about

   types:

   confront, face, face up

   deal with (something unpleasant) head on

   tackle, take on, undertake

   accept as a challenge

   type of:

   act, move

   perform an action, or work out or perform (an action)
2. verb

   enter upon an activity or enterprise
   synonyms: attempt, undertake

   type of:

   initiate, pioneer

   take the lead or initiative in; participate in the development of
3. verb

   take the first step or steps in carrying out an action
   synonyms: begin, commence, get, get down, set out, start, start out

   begin

   begin to speak, understand, read, and write a language

   types:

   recommence

   begin again

   strike out

   set out on a course of action

   fall

   begin vigorously

   jump off

   set off quickly, usually with success

   get to

   arrive at the point of

   auspicate

   commence in a manner calculated to bring good luck

   attack

   set to work upon; turn one's energies vigorously to a task

   break in

   start in a certain activity, enterprise, or role

   launch, plunge

   begin with vigor

   come on

   occur or become available

   embark, enter

   set out on (an enterprise or subject of study)

   bestir oneself, get cracking, get going, get moving, get rolling, get started, get weaving

   start to be active

   take up

   pursue or resume