set up a system
/sɛt ʌp ə ˈsɪstəm/
Meaning
This phrase means to establish, organize, or install a structured process, method, or software framework to handle tasks efficiently. It can refer to physical infrastructure, software configurations, or organizational workflows. The tone is proactive and administrative.
Examples
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We need to set up a system to track employee vacation days.
We need to set up a system to track employee vacation days.
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The IT department will set up a system for secure remote access.
The IT department will set up a system for secure remote access.
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She helped set up a system that automated our monthly invoicing.
She helped set up a system that automated our monthly invoicing.
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Once we set up a system, managing client feedback will be much easier.
Once we set up a system, managing client feedback will be much easier.
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They are trying to set up a system to reduce waste in the warehouse.
They are trying to set up a system to reduce waste in the warehouse.
Common Mistakes
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✗ We need to build up a system for filing documents.
✓ We need to set up a system for filing documents.
'Build up' refers to accumulating or strengthening something over time. To establish or install a structured system, use 'set up'.
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✗ He is setting up of a system to monitor sales.
✓ He is setting up a system to monitor sales.
'Set up' is a transitive phrasal verb and does not require the preposition 'of' before its direct object.
Related Expressions
Practice
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We should ___ to handle customer complaints more quickly.
💡 establish a structured process
Show answer
set up a system
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It took them a week to ___ for tracking inventory.
💡 organize a method
Show answer
set up a system