Setting: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'setting' when describing the location or time where an event takes place or a story unfolds. This is often used in literature, film, and art.

• The setting of the novel is a small coastal town in the 19th century.
• The beautiful beach setting added to the romantic atmosphere of the film.

Use 'environment' to refer to the surrounding conditions, particularly those affecting living organisms or the general situation someone is in. It’s often used in discussions about ecology or workplace conditions.

• Pollution is causing serious damage to the environment.
• A positive work environment leads to higher employee satisfaction.

Use 'surroundings' to refer to all the external factors and items around a particular person or thing. This word often describes the immediate area or nearby aspects.

• She was nervous in her new surroundings.
• Their house is located in beautiful natural surroundings.

Use 'background' to describe the underlying circumstances, past events, or context affecting a situation or a character. It can also denote the scenery behind the main subject in a picture or scene.

• Her background in engineering helped her secure the job.
• The mountain formed a breathtaking background for their picnic photos.

Used when referring to an environment or background, often in literature, events, or jewel placement.

• The setting of the novel was a small village in England.
• The ring features a diamond in a gold setting.

Commonly used to refer to a structural support or border, applicable in contexts such as photography, construction, or furniture.

• She carefully placed the photograph in a silver frame.
• The wooden frame of the chair was beautifully carved.

Typically refers to physical supports or attachment for devices, artwork, or structures.

• The TV mounting on the wall was very secure.
• He admired the mounting of the sculpture in the gallery.

Specifically used in the context of watches, jewelry, or screens, indicating the outer ring or rim.

• The watch's bezel is made of stainless steel.
• The phone's bezel is very slim, making the screen look larger.

Use when you are establishing a specific state, location, or environment for something.

• The setting sun painted the sky with vibrant colors
• They were setting the table for dinner

Use when you put things in a specific order or position, often for aesthetic or functional purposes.

• He is arranging the books alphabetically
• They were arranging the flowers in a vase

Use when you make small changes to something to improve it or make it more suitable.

• He kept adjusting his tie before the meeting
• She is adjusting the volume on the television

Use when making plans or systematically putting things in order, often to make tasks clear and efficient.

• She is organizing a charity event
• He spent the weekend organizing his files