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Avidlearner Posted 14 years ago
Grammar

"Humans become capable of reproduction after
puberty sets in."

Definition of 'Set in' is -

"(of something unpleasant or unwelcome) begin and seem likely to continue"
, for Oxzford dictionary.

My question is -
'set in' used for starting unpleasent things than why this is used in above given sentence.
Thank you
  

Top answer

Avidlearner 'set in' used for starting unpleasent things Not always. More accurate dictionaries define the phrasal verb simply as to begin , without attaching limitations to it. If I were a lexicographer, however, I would make a note that the word is often used in a negative sense, since that appears to be the case.

— RandomGuy

  • Avidlearner 'set in' used for starting unpleasent things Not always.
  • More accurate dictionaries define the phrasal verb simply as to begin , without attaching limitations to it.
  • If I were a lexicographer, however, I would make a note that the word is often used in a negative sense, since that appears to be the case.
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4 Answers
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Avidlearner'set in' used for starting unpleasent things
Not always. More accurate dictionaries define the phrasal verb simply as to begin, without attaching limitations to it. If I were a lexicographer, however, I would make a note that the word is often used in a negative sense, since that appears to be the case.
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But i use "oxford dictionary" always, sir.

it means, being a non - native, i have to struggle always for a right meaning?

i have done my best to choose this dictionary. is it not enough?
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Often it’s necessary to consult several dictionaries before coming to a satisfactory conclusion about a certain word. I usually check both Dictionary.com and M-W.com and compare the differences in definitions and make up my own mind, and if they don’t satisfy me, I’ll extend my search using the very helpful OneLook.
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Thank you so much. You were a great help.
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