set up

You prepare equipment or a place so that people can use it.

• Please set up the camera.
• We set up the equipment before lunch.
• Have you set it up yet?

How to use it: set up something / set something up (Can you set the printer up?)

Similar words: prepare, install

Common phrases: set up equipment, set up a computer, set up something

You arrange things in a clear order that makes sense.

• Set up the files by name.
• She set up her collection in alphabetical order.
• How have you set up the folders?

How to use it: set something up by something (We set the files up by date.)

Similar words: organize, arrange, order

Common phrases: set up files, set up folders, set up a collection

You start a business, group, or organization.

• They set up a shop.
• She set up a charity to help families.
• Would you like to set up your own business?

How to use it: set up something / set something up (They set a small company up together.)

Similar words: start, establish, found

Opposites: close down

Common phrases: set up a business, set up a charity, set up shop

You plan and arrange an event or activity.

• Let's set up a meeting.
• She set up an interview for Friday.
• Who will set up the next training session?

How to use it: set up something with someone (I set up a meeting with the manager.)

Similar words: arrange, organize, schedule

Opposites: cancel

Common phrases: set up a meeting, set up an interview, set up a visit

You build or put together a structure, usually one that will be used for a short time.

• Let's set up the tent.
• The traders set up stalls in the square.
• Where should we set up camp tonight?

How to use it: set up something / set something up (We set the tent up beside the river.)

Similar words: put up, erect, assemble

Opposites: take down

Common phrases: set up a tent, set up camp, set up a stage

You connect or adjust a device so that it is ready to use.

• I can set up your printer.
• We set up the new computer yesterday.
• Have you finished setting up the camera?

How to use it: set up something / set something up (Let me set your new phone up.)

Similar words: configure, install, prepare

Common phrases: set up a phone, set up a printer, set up a camera

You get everything ready before starting an activity.

• We need to get set up.
• She got set up for the video call.
• How long will it take to get set up?

How to use it: get set up for something (We need to get set up for the lesson.); get set up to do something (I'm getting set up to paint the room.)

Similar words: get ready, prepare

Common phrases: get set up, set up beforehand, set up early

You give someone the equipment or other things they need.

• They set me up with a phone.
• The club set us up with camping equipment.
• Can you set her up with everything she needs?

How to use it: set someone up with something (The school set each teacher up with a laptop.)

Similar words: equip, supply, provide for

Common phrases: set someone up, set up new employees