a physical setback

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a physical setback" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone experiences a hindrance or obstacle related to their physical health or abilities. Example: "After her surgery, she faced a physical setback that delayed her recovery process."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Mr. Fellner, having overcome a physical setback, seems to have done just that.

The New York Times - Arts

Garcia has yet to experience a physical setback, and for that the Yankees are grateful.

The New York Times - Sports

They'd been excited about working on their adaptation of "The Man from U.N.C.L.E.," but after their star, George Clooney, suffered a physical setback, the studio opted out.

The New Yorker

She was working as a home health attendant until November 2008, when a physical setback forced her to take some time off.

The New York Times

His private secretary, Oliver Anderson, said he had suffered "a physical setback" on the flight and was expected to make a full recovery.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

"If you don't email that video to me tomorrowas soe said, "I will hupsetou dowhen

Huffington Post

According to high-level league and Wizards team officials -- and barring a last-minute physical setback -- Jordan is planning to play for the Wizards this season and perhaps in 2002-3, depending on his and the team's progress.

The New York Times - Sports

His goal at the Giro d'Italia is to support Leipheimer, try to avoid any physical setbacks and shoot for the Tour de France.

The New York Times - Sports

But the pitching coach Dan Warthen, who spoke with Conti, said he was not told about any physical setbacks.... Oliver Perez threw three scoreless innings (48 pitches) in an extended spring training game and is on track to pitch again Tuesday.

The New York Times - Sports

The Panthers' Cam Newton will "probably" start Sunday against the Cleveland Browns barring any physical setbacks this week, Carolina Coach Ron Rivera said after the quarterback practiced Thursday.

Los Angeles Times

"He was almost unapproachable when he got his physical setback," Hiddink said.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about someone's recovery, use "a physical setback" to describe a temporary delay or regression in their progress. This is especially useful in sports or medical contexts.

Common error

Be careful not to use "a physical setback" when you mean a general obstacle in someone's life. "A physical setback" specifically refers to health-related impediments, while "a personal setback" encompasses broader challenges.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a physical setback" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a situation where someone's physical condition or health causes a delay or impediment in their progress. This is supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a physical setback" is a noun phrase used to describe a temporary delay or regression caused by a health-related issue. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While relatively rare, it's primarily found in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects a health-related impediment rather than a general obstacle. Alternative phrases like "a health issue" or "a physical impediment" can be used depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a physical health problem

More explicitly states the issue as a problem with physical health.

a physical impediment

Highlights the hindering aspect of a physical condition.

a physical difficulty

General term indicating a physical problem or struggle.

a physical relapse

Highlights the idea of a return to a previous condition.

a health issue

Focuses on health rather than progress being hampered.

a health-related obstacle

Emphasizes the health aspect as creating an obstacle.

a health challenge

Focuses on the challenging nature of the health problem.

a bodily ailment

Emphasizes the physical ailment component of the setback.

a medical complication

Focuses on the medical aspect and its complexity.

a medical issue

Focuses on medical aspect of the setback.

FAQs

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

You can use "a physical setback" to describe a delay in recovery or progress due to a health issue. For example, "The athlete experienced a physical setback after the surgery, delaying his return to the game."

What are some alternative phrases for "a physical setback"?

Some alternatives include "a health issue", "a physical impediment", or "a health-related obstacle", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a physical setback" in formal writing?

Yes, "a physical setback" is appropriate for formal writing, especially in contexts related to health, sports, or medicine. It is a clear and professional way to describe a specific type of obstacle.

What's the difference between "a physical setback" and "a personal setback"?

"A physical setback" refers specifically to a health-related delay or obstacle, while "a personal setback" is a broader term that can refer to any type of challenge or difficulty in someone's life.