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setback
/ˈsɛtˌbæk/
delay or obstacle
The project faced a major setback when funding was cut.
The project experienced a significant delay due to reduced funding.
general
A reversal or check in progress, especially one that is temporary or unexpected.
After months of preparation, the team suffered a setback when their key member resigned.
The resignation of a key member disrupted the team's progress.
The company's expansion plans hit a setback due to economic downturn.
Economic conditions forced the company to delay its expansion.
Often used to describe minor or temporary obstacles rather than catastrophic failures.
Collocations
major setbacka significant obstacleface a setbackexperience an unexpected delayovercome a setbackrecover from an obstacle
Pro Tip
Using 'setback' in sentences
Use 'setback' to describe a temporary obstacle that slows down progress. Example: 'Despite the setback, the team remained optimistic.' Avoid using it for permanent failures.
Gold Rule
Avoid redundancy
Do not pair 'setback' with words like 'unexpected' or 'major' unless necessary. The word itself implies an obstacle, so 'unexpected setback' is often redundant.
Word Origin
Late 18th century: from set (in the sense 'put, place') + back, originally in the phrase set back the clock, figuratively meaning 'to hinder progress.'
Usage Notes
Commonly used in both personal and professional contexts to describe setbacks in plans, projects, or goals. Often implies a temporary delay rather than a permanent failure.
Word Breakdown
set
to place or put
rootback
in the reverse direction or hindering progress
rootEnglish Dictionary