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3. set the scene

set the scene

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set the scene (for something)

1. to make something possible or likely to happen The recent resignation of two cabinet members has set the scene for a pre-election crisis.

2. to describe a situation so that people can understand what is happening Let me just set the scene briefly and my colleague will add some details later.

See also: scene, set

set the scene

to describe a situation where something is going to happen soon First, let's set the scene - it was a cold dark night with a strong wind blowing...

See also: scene, set

set the scene

/stage for

To provide the underlying basis for: saber rattling that set the stage for war.

See also: scene, set