set (something) right
To amend or correct something; to make something more accurate or fair or return it to its desired position or status. I appreciate that she offers to tidy my desk for me, but I always end up having to set it right afterwards. When it became apparent that the two teams were really lopsided, the gym teacher shuffled some kids around to set it right. I know I said some things I shouldn't have, so I'm here to set things right between us.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
set something right
and make something right; make something good; put something rightto correct something; to alter a situation to make it more fair. This is a very unfortunate situation. I'll ask the people responsible to set this matter right. I'm sorry that we overcharged you. We'll try to put it right. I know I owe you some money, but don't worry, I'll make it good.
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
set right
Also, put right.
1. Place something in proper position; also, repair something. For example, Your tie is lopsided; let me set it right, or The faucets were in backwards but the plumber will soon put them right. [Second half of 1500s]
2. Correct someone, as in They thought he was married but he quickly set them right.
3. Make something accurate or fair, as in
He offered to pay for the meal to put things right. Also see
set straight.
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.