set aside set aside (something) 1. to save something for a particular purpose. It's wise to set aside some money for unexpected expenses that may come up in the future. After melting the chocolate, set it aside and beat the eggs. 2. to not allow something to influence an activity. We need to set aside our differences and work together. Ancient rivalries still threaten the cause of peace, but we must set them aside. 3. to cause a previous legal judgment to have no effect. The court set aside his conviction and ordered a new trial. |