set store by: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "set store by" is a phrase commonly used in English. Its origin can be traced back to the Middle English period in the 15th century. This idiom combines the meanings of the words "set" and "store" to express the idea of valuing or placing importance on something or someone. It is often used figuratively to indicate a high regard or esteem for a person, object, or concept.

An individual who sets store by something or someone is expressing their trust, belief, or reliance on that particular thing or person. For example, one might say, "I set great store by my family's advice" to convey the high value and importance they place on their family's guidance.

On the other hand, the idiom can also be used in a negative sense to indicate a lack of importance or value placed on something or someone. For instance, someone might say, "I don't set much store by the opinions of strangers" to express that they do not grant much significance to the viewpoints of people they do not know well.

The idiom "put store by" is closely related to "set store by" and conveys a similar meaning. Both idioms share the idea of valuing or placing importance on something or someone. The key difference is that "put store by" emphasizes the act of placing value, while "set store by" focuses on establishing the value.

Similarly, the idiom "lay store by" is also related to "set store by" and carries a similar meaning. It implies the act of placing value or importance on something or someone, emphasizing the idea of valuing or relying on them.

Another related idiom is "put store in." This phrase is used to express the act of relying on or trusting in something or someone. It is similar to "set store by" in that it conveys the notion of placing importance or value on a particular thing or person.

Additionally, the idiom "store away" is related to "set store by" and conveys the idea of keeping something in storage or storing it for future use. While the meaning is distinct from "set store by," both idioms use the word "store" to convey the concept of preserving or keeping something.

The idiom "set in stone" is also related to "set store by" and carries a different meaning. "Set in stone" is used to suggest that something is fixed, unchangeable, or permanent. While it differs in meaning from "set store by," both idioms use the word "set" to convey the idea of establishing or determining something.

Throughout history, the idiom "set store by" has been used in various forms of literature and spoken discourse. It has become a well-established phrase within the English language, with its meaning firmly ingrained in society's understanding of idiomatic expressions.

Understanding the etymology of idioms can be a challenge due to their origins being rooted in oral tradition and cultural practices. However, the idiom "set store by" has managed to withstand the test of time and maintain its relevance in modern language usage.

The idiom "set store by" is a widely used phrase in English. Its origin can be traced back to the Middle English period in the 15th century. This idiom conveys the idea of valuing or placing importance on something or someone. It is often used figuratively to express a high regard or esteem for a person, object, or concept. The related idioms "put store by," "lay store by," "put store in," "store away," and "set in stone" share similar meanings or convey related concepts. While "set in stone" differs in meaning, all these idioms use the word "set" to establish or determine something. Throughout history, the idiom "set store by" has remained prevalent in literature and everyday speech, solidifying its place as a phrase understood and employed by native English speakers today.