A major setback

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "A major setback" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant obstacle or difficulty that hinders progress or success in a situation. Example: "The project faced a major setback when the funding was unexpectedly cut."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A major setback for Tyndall would be a major setback for her.

The Washington Post

A major setback for microbial production of aromatics is the high toxicity of the products.

Journal of Biotechnology

The boycott lasted a year and was a major setback for polio eradication.

Globalization and Health

That's a major setback.

The Washington Post

Or a major setback for feminism?

Independent

"This was a major setback.

The New York Times - Sports

The fall brought a major setback.

The New York Times

Still, it has been a major setback.

The New York Times

Egypt's march toward democracy has suffered a major setback.

The New York Times

Last week, the good news had a major setback.

The New York Times

The loss of Shockey, though, is clearly a major setback.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a major setback", ensure that the context clearly defines what was previously progressing well and how this event hinders that progress. This provides clarity and emphasizes the impact of the setback.

Common error

Avoid using "a major setback" for minor inconveniences. Reserve this phrase for situations that genuinely halt progress or significantly impact goals. Using it too casually dilutes its meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a major setback" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object. It identifies a significant negative event or obstacle. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a major setback" is a commonly used phrase to describe a significant obstacle or negative event that hinders progress. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It is most frequently found in news and media, scientific, and formal business contexts. While the phrase is versatile, it's important to reserve its use for situations where the impact is genuinely substantial. Consider using alternative phrases like "a significant impediment" or "a serious stumbling block" to add nuance or variation to your writing. Be mindful of overstating the significance of minor inconveniences by labeling them as "a major setback".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A significant impediment

Emphasizes the hindering aspect of the situation, focusing on what prevents progress.

A serious stumbling block

Highlights an obstacle that causes one to falter or stop.

A considerable disadvantage

Focuses on the unfavorable position resulting from the event.

A substantial reverse

Highlights the backward movement or regression caused.

A grave impediment

Emphasizes the severe hindering impact of the obstacle.

A critical failure

Draws attention to the severe lack of success in a crucial area.

A regrettable development

Focuses on the unfortunate and lamentable nature of the event.

A notable downturn

Indicates a decline or worsening of a situation.

A regrettable turn of events

Focuses on the unfortunate change in circumstances.

A challenging predicament

Emphasizes the difficult and problematic nature of the situation.

FAQs

How can I use "a major setback" in a sentence?

"A major setback" typically refers to a significant obstacle or event that hinders progress. For example, "The project faced "a major setback" when funding was unexpectedly cut."

What are some alternatives to saying "a major setback"?

You can use alternatives such as "a significant impediment", "a serious stumbling block", or "a considerable disadvantage" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "a major setback" or "a minor setback"?

The choice depends on the scale of the impact. Use ""a major setback"" for significant disruptions and "a minor setback" for smaller, less impactful issues.

What distinguishes "a major setback" from "a challenge"?

"A challenge" is a difficulty that can be overcome with effort. "A major setback" suggests a more profound disruption that could potentially derail progress or require significant changes in strategy.