set on

verb

1. (preposition) to cause to attack

   they set the dogs on him

2. (adverb) to instigate or incite; urge

   he set the child on to demand food

Idioms and Phrases

Also, set upon.

Attack; see set at .

Instigate, urge one to engage in action, as in The older boys set on the young ones to get in trouble . [Early 1500s]

. Be determined to, as in He's set on studying law .

Example Sentences

As his company grows, Soule has his sights set on launching in the Golden State.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Bay Collective is already the majority owner of American club Bay FC - and has its sights set on Europe next.

Read more on BBC

While the vast majority of celebrations were peaceful, some businesses were burglarized downtown and bus was set on fire in Echo Park.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Many tankers have been set on fire, while drivers and soldiers have been killed or kidnapped in jihadist ambushes.

Read more on Barron's

More vegetables were chopped, skillets started sizzling, delicious aromas swirled together, and before long a magnificent meal was set on the dinner table.

Read more on Literature

Related Words

• decisive 
• dogged 
• purposeful 
• resolute 
• resolved 
• serious 
• single-minded 
• steadfast 
• strong-willed 
• stubborn 
• tenacious