set a record — achieve best result
collocationB1IELTS 5+neutralcommon
to achieve the best result ever in a particular activity or event, so that no one has done better before
Say it like a native
Textbook She established a new best-ever performance in the event.
Native She set a new record in the event.
Natural; 'established a best-ever performance' is wordy.
Pattern: set a/the record (for/in something)
In use
- She set a record by running the marathon in just over two hours.achievement
- In my opinion, when someone sets a record in sports, it inspires others to work harder and reach new goals.IELTS speaking
Common mistake
✗ He made a new record in the 100m.
✓ He set a new record in the 100m.
You SET a record (or 'break' one) — you don't 'make' it.
Common collocations
set a record— new, break, world, set a new record for
Don't confuse it
Not about making music or creating a recording; it's about being the best at something.