Set Phrase - Examples of Set Phrases

Examples of Set Phrases

Some set phrases are used as either their own statement or as part of a longer statement:

  • I see - Can be used both metaphorically and literally.
  • I don't know
  • Thank you - There is an implied "I" that is almost never used with the set phrase.
  • You're welcome - Note that while 'You are welcome' would have the same literal meaning, it is very rarely used in the same way.

Others are almost always used with more detail added:

  • Don't look now... - Used either literally or figuratively to warn someone about an imminent misfortune.
  • You know... - Usually used rhetorically to make the audience think about the following topic.

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