mindmap root((圈子)) set applies to a comparatively large, typically social, group of persons bound together by common interests or tastes: the hunting ~. circle implies a common center of the group, such as a person, an activity, or a cause: a peaceful family ~. coterie applies to a small, select, or exclusive circle: political aspirants, each with a ~ of advisors. clique is likely to suggest a selfish or arrogant exclusiveness and is especially applicable to a small inner or dissident group within a larger set or circle: a high school made up of combative ~s.