set apart

To make someone or something clearly different from others, often in a good way.

• His voice sets him apart.
• Their careful service set them apart from their competitors.
• What sets this hotel apart from the others?

How to use it: set someone/something apart from someone/something (Her kindness sets her apart from other leaders.)

Similar words: distinguish, differentiate

Common phrases: set apart someone, set apart something

To choose and keep someone or something for a particular use.

• We set apart some money for emergencies.
• A small room was set apart for visitors.
• The village set apart land for a new school.

How to use it: set something apart for something (They set apart a room for prayer.)

Similar words: reserve, set aside, earmark

Common phrases: set apart something, set apart funds

To put people or things away from each other or from a larger group.

• Set the chairs apart.
• We set the broken tools apart from the working ones.
• The tables were set apart to leave room for walking.

How to use it: set something apart from something (Set the damaged boxes apart from the rest.)

Similar words: separate, isolate

Opposites: combine

Common phrases: set apart something, set apart chairs

To give someone a religious blessing that officially allows them to serve in a church position.

• The bishop set him apart yesterday.
• She was set apart for her new church calling.
• Two missionaries were set apart before leaving for their assignments.

How to use it: set someone apart as something (The bishop set her apart as a teacher.)

Common phrases: set apart someone, set apart missionaries