The phrase "at a set time" is frequently used to refer to a specific, predetermined time. It often points to a time that has been decided upon in advance. This term can be found in various situations like meetings, events, or daily routines. It gives a clear indication of when something is supposed to start or happen without any ambiguity.

In short:

• It points to a predetermined or agreed-upon time.
• It's used to clarify when an event or activity will take place.

What Does "At a Set Time" Mean?

When someone refers to "at a set time," they're talking about a specific time that has been chosen beforehand. It's a way to avoid confusion and ensure everyone knows exactly when something is scheduled. For instance, you might hear, "The meeting is at a set time of 3 p.m.," emphasizing the importance of punctuality. Or someone might say, "The show starts at a set time, so don't be late."

Let's look deeper into its main meanings and usage:

• It emphasizes the importance of sticking to the decided time.
• Using this phrase makes it clear there's an expectation to adhere to the chosen time.
• "At a set time" can be a reminder or a way to stress punctuality in various scenarios.
• It's seen in formal situations, like business meetings, and casual events, like meet-ups with friends.
• Similar phrases include "at a specific time," "at an agreed-upon time," and "at a designated time."

Where Does "At a Set Time" Come From?

The exact origin of the phrase "at a set time" isn't well-documented, but the use of the word "set" to mean "fixed or determined" has been in the English language for centuries. The concept of setting or fixing a time can be traced back to organizing events or routines based on specific timings.

Historical Example

"The villagers gathered at a set time every evening to discuss the day's events and make plans for the next."

- Village Chronicles, 1885

10 Examples of "At a Set Time" in Sentences

To help you understand when to use this phrase, let's look at some examples from various situations:

• Moving forward, we will have our weekly meetings at a set time every Monday morning.
• She takes her medication at a set time every evening.
• See you soon at a set time and place that we agreed on yesterday.
• He calls his family at a set time every Sunday to catch up.
• The buses leave at a set time, so you must be at the station a few minutes early.
• They agreed to meet at a set time to avoid any confusion.
• Next time around, let’s plan to meet at a set time so we don’t have to wait for each other.
• She practices piano at a set time daily to maintain a routine.
• The webinar starts at a set time, and it's important to log in before that.
• The tech nerd likes to watch live streams of her favorite gadgets at a set time every week.

Examples of "At a Set Time" in Pop Culture

This phrase can also be found in pop culture, usually emphasizing the importance of timing in a storyline.

Let's look at some examples:

• In the movie "Cinderella," she must leave the ball at a set time before her dress turns back to rags.
• The TV series "24" follows the events of one day, with each episode occurring at a set time.
• In the book "Around the World in Eighty Days," the protagonist has to complete his journey by a set time.

Synonyms: Other/Different Ways to Say "At a Set Time"

Here are some alternative phrases that convey a similar meaning:

• At a fixed time
• At a predetermined time
• At a scheduled time
• Exactly at...
• Right at...
• On the dot
• Sharp at...
• On schedule
• At an agreed-upon time
• At the designated hour

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "At a Set Time":

• What does "at a set time" mean?

"At a set time" means at a specific and predetermined time. It points to a time that has been agreed upon or scheduled in advance.

• How can I use "at a set time" in a sentence?

You can use it to mention when something is planned to happen. For instance: "The class starts at a set time of 9 am." or "We have to meet at a set time tomorrow."

• Is "at a set time" used more in daily routines or special events?

"At a set time" can be used for both daily routines and special events. For routines, it might mean taking medication or attending a regular meeting. For special events, it could indicate the start of a concert or a wedding ceremony.

• Can it be about past events?

Yes, it can refer to past events. For example: "The party ended at a set time of midnight.

• Is it similar to "on time"?

Not exactly. "On time" means something happened at the expected time, without delay. At a set time" means something is scheduled or planned for a specific time, whether or not it happens exactly then.

• How is it different from "at a given time"?

"At a set time" implies that the time was predetermined and agreed upon. "At a given time" can be more general, suggesting any specific time that might be mentioned later.

• Does it always relate to clocks and hours?

Most often, yes. But it can also relate to specific phases or events, like "at a set time after the first rain."

• Is it important in project management?

Yes, in project management, tasks often need to be completed "at a set time" to keep the project on track.

• Can it be used in informal situations?

Definitely. Friends might decide to meet "at a set time" for a movie or a meal.

• Is it more about the start or the end of an event?

It can be about both. "At a set time" can indicate the beginning or the end of an event or activity.

Final Thoughts About "At a Set Time"

The phrase "at a set time" is useful for discussing scheduled events or actions. Whether in professional, personal, or informal contexts, it helps set clear timing expectations.

Here's a quick recap:

• It points to a predetermined and specific time.
• It can be used for both daily routines and special events.
• The phrase differs from "on time" and "at a given time."
• It's helpful in many situations, from project management to casual meetups.