collocation · neutral
set boundaries
UK/sɛt ˈbaʊnd(ə)riz/US/sɛt ˈbaʊndəriz/SET BOUN·da·ries
to establish clear limits about acceptable behaviour or responsibilities in a relationship
Examples
“It's healthy for couples to set boundaries about money and privacy.”
“Teachers must set boundaries with pupils to maintain classroom discipline.”
“Parents should set boundaries and be consistent when disciplining their children.”
Band 8 sentence
“Couples who set clear boundaries early on are more likely to negotiate conflicts constructively and maintain long-term satisfaction.”
Collocations
- set boundaries with someone
- set clear boundaries
- set boundaries in a relationship
Word family
Common mistakes
make boundaries→set boundaries
set boundary→set boundaries
Say it for a higher band
5make boundaries→6establish boundaries→7+set boundaries
Synonyms
establish boundaries
define limits
Easily confused
establish boundaries
“It is important for managers to establish boundaries between work and personal life.”
Related words
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In Family & Relationships
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