One word or two
Setup vs. Set up
Setup, one word, is a noun: an arrangement, like a home office setup. Set up, two words, is the verb: to arrange or prepare something. You set up the tent, then admire the setup.
| Word | Part of speech | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| setup | noun | the way something is arranged or organized, or the equipment used for a task |
| set up | verb | to arrange, build or prepare something so it is ready to use; also to start something |
Setup
noun: the way something is arranged or organized, or the equipment used for a task
- My desk setup includes two screens and a lamp.
- The setup for the science fair took all morning.
Set up
verb: to arrange, build or prepare something so it is ready to use; also to start something
- We set up the tent before it got dark.
- Priya is setting up a savings account for her daughter.
How to remember the difference
If you can change the tense or add -ing (setting up, set up yesterday), write two words. If you can put the in front (the setup), write one word.
Good to know
You may also see set-up with a hyphen, mostly in British English. Most American dictionaries and style guides, including AP, use setup for the noun and for noun uses before another noun, as in setup fee.
Spot the mistake
It took an hour to
setupset up the new printer.Correct: It took an hour to set up the new printer.
The
set upsetup for the wedding looked beautiful.Correct: The setup for the wedding looked beautiful.
Check yourself
Pick the word that fits each sentence.
1. Can you help me the chairs for the meeting?
Answer: set up. This is an action, arranging the chairs, so use the two-word verb set up.
2. The band's stage includes three keyboards and a drum kit.
Answer: setup. The word names a thing, the arrangement, so it is the noun setup.