a serious setback

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a serious 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 unexpected loss of funding was a serious setback for the research project, delaying its completion by several months."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Losing glyphosate would be a serious setback.

The New York Times

But it is a serious setback for judicial campaign reform.

The New York Times

The coup was a serious setback for democracy in Africa.

The New York Times

Glenrothes was a serious setback for the SNP.

The Guardian

"I don't consider this a serious setback," Mr. Neal said.

The New York Times

But last year Westhoff experienced a serious setback.

The New York Times - Sports

"But what has happened now is a serious setback".

The New York Times

I would submit that it is not a serious setback.

The Guardian - Opinion

"And we think that they have dealt that effort a serious setback.

The New York Times

That would represent a serious setback to the peace process but probably not halt it completely.

The Economist

For all that, Corbisiero's latest orthopaedic breakdown is a serious setback.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a serious setback", clearly specify the area or project affected to provide context and emphasize the impact.

Common error

Avoid using "a serious setback" for minor inconveniences. Reserve it for situations where progress is significantly hindered or reversed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a serious setback" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or an object. It identifies a significant obstacle or reversal in progress, as evidenced by examples in Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Science

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a serious setback" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a significant obstacle or reversal in progress. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While the phrase is versatile, it's important to reserve it for situations where the impact is truly substantial, avoiding its use for minor inconveniences. Consider alternatives like "a major impediment" or "a significant reverse" to fine-tune your message based on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a major impediment

Focuses more on the hindering aspect rather than the reversal of progress.

a significant reverse

Emphasizes the backward movement or negative turn in events.

a grave difficulty

Highlights the severity and challenging nature of the problem.

a critical failure

Indicates a fundamental breakdown with severe consequences.

a considerable hitch

Suggests a temporary disruption or obstacle, possibly less severe.

a substantial blow

Conveys the impact of the setback, emphasizing the damage inflicted.

a tough break

An informal way to express misfortune or an unfavorable event.

a real problem

A more general term indicating an issue that needs addressing.

a tricky situation

Focuses on the complexity and the need for careful handling.

an unfortunate development

Highlights the negative and undesirable nature of the event.

FAQs

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

You can use "a serious setback" to describe a significant obstacle or reversal in progress. For example, "The cancellation of the event was "a serious setback" for our fundraising efforts."

What are some alternatives to "a serious setback"?

Alternatives include "a major impediment", "a significant reverse", or "a grave difficulty", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

Yes, "a serious setback" is appropriate for formal writing as it is a clear and professional way to describe a significant obstacle or problem. Its register is neutral and can be used in several contexts.

What distinguishes "a serious setback" from "a minor inconvenience"?

"A serious setback" implies a significant negative impact on progress, potentially causing delays or failures, whereas "a minor inconvenience" refers to a small, easily managed disruption.