set up shop: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘set up shop’ mean?
"Set up shop" means to establish a business or start an operation, often in a specific location.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "take care of business" means to handle or complete necessary tasks or responsibilities efficiently and effectively.
The idiom "start a family" means to establish a household and have children.
The idiom "show up" means to appear or arrive at a specific place or event, often unexpectedly or in a surprising manner.
The idiom "set up one's staff" means to establish a network of trusted people or resources who can assist or support you in a specific endeavor or task. These individuals or tools are chosen carefully and rely on their expertise or abilities to aid in achieving a desired outcome.
The idiom "settle into" means to become comfortable or accustomed to a new situation or place. It implies a process of adjusting and finding one's place in a new environment or routine.
The idiom "settle in" means to become comfortable or familiar with a new environment or situation. It implies the process of adapting and feeling at ease in a new place or job.
"Set the stage" means to prepare or create the necessary conditions or environment for something to happen or be successful, often used to refer to a situation that will enable a specific event or outcome. It originates from the theater, where setting the stage involves arranging props, scenery, and lighting to create the desired atmosphere for a performance.
The idiom "set store by" means to value or place importance and significance on something. It implies that someone values or takes into consideration a certain thing or belief when making decisions or judgments.
FAIL
The idiom "set up shop" refers to the act of starting a business or establishing a place of business. It is commonly used to describe the physical act of creating an operational space where commercial activities can take place. As entrepreneurs and merchants in the 1700s would literally set up a physical store or shop to conduct business, the phrase evolved to incorporate a more metaphorical meaning.
Today, "set up shop" is widely used in informal conversations, business discussions, and media headlines to convey the idea of starting a venture or commencing an operation. It is a simple and clear idiom that conveys the intended meaning effectively. It is recognized and understood not only in the United States but also in other English-speaking countries.
The idiom has a broad range of applications in the context of establishing a business or enterprise. It can refer to actions such as renting or purchasing a physical space and arranging the necessary infrastructure. Additionally, it may involve organizing merchandise or services, as well as hiring and training employees. The idiom can also be used in non-commercial situations, such as starting a new project or embarking on a new chapter in life.
"Set up shop" has become deeply ingrained in the English language, reflecting its importance as a means of communication and expression. It provides a concise way to convey the notion of starting something new, whether in business or a broader context. As language continues to evolve, it is likely that this idiom will adapt and find new applications in the future.
Place of Business
In the context of "set up shop," the idiom can be related to the notion of a "place of business." When someone sets up shop, they are essentially establishing a physical location where their business operations will take place. This can involve finding a suitable space, preparing the premises, and ensuring all the necessary facilities and resources are in place. The process of setting up shop includes creating a functional and inviting environment for customers and clients to engage with the business.
Another related idiom is "set up one's staff." When setting up shop, it often involves hiring and training staff members to support the business operations. This includes recruiting individuals who possess the skills and qualifications required for specific roles within the organization. Once the staff is hired, they need to be onboarded and trained to ensure they understand their roles and responsibilities and can contribute effectively to the success of the enterprise.
The idiom "set the stage" can also be connected to "set up shop" in a figurative sense. When setting up shop, it involves creating the environment and conditions for a successful business operation. This includes setting the stage by establishing the necessary infrastructure, organizing merchandise or services, and creating a positive customer experience. By setting the stage effectively, the business is positioning itself for success and creating a foundation for future growth and profitability.
In Business
Lastly, "set up shop" is closely related to the idiom "in business." When someone sets up shop, it means they are officially starting their business operations. They are no longer in the planning or preparation phase but are actively engaged in commercial activities. When the business is up and running, it can be said that they are "in business." This idiom signifies that the venture or operation has begun and is in operation, ready to serve customers and provide products or services.
Overall, "set up shop" is a versatile idiom that has a clear and concise meaning. It represents the act of starting a business or establishing a place of business. The idiom can be used to describe various actions associated with setting up a business, including creating a physical presence, organizing merchandise or services, hiring and training staff, and initiating new projects. It plays a significant role in the English language, providing a shorthand way to convey the concept of starting something new, whether in business or in a broader context.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *set up shop* can be used in a sentence:
- After quitting his job, John decided to set up shop as a freelance graphic designer.
- They set up shop in a small town and quickly became the go-to bakery for locals.
- When the company expanded, they decided to set up shop in a new office building.
More "Origin" idioms
