1.
When you set out , you start a journey.
When setting out on a long walk, always wear suitable boots.
= set off
PHRASAL VERB : V P prep / adv
2.
If you set out to do something, you start trying to do it.
He has achieved what he set out to do three years ago...
PHRASAL VERB : V P to-inf
3.
If you set things out , you arrange or display them somewhere.
Set out the cakes attractively, using lacy doilies.
= arrange
PHRASAL VERB : V P n (not pron) , also V n P
4.
If you set out a number of facts, beliefs, or arguments, you explain them in writing or speech in a clear, organized way.
He has written a letter to The Times setting out his views...
PHRASAL VERB : V P n (not pron) , also V n P