a setback materializes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a setback materializes" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a situation where an unexpected problem or obstacle arises. Example: "Despite our careful planning, a setback materializes, forcing us to reevaluate our timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Those in favor of more stringent net neutrality regulation suffered a setback today, but perhaps one that is still salvageable provided that enough pushback materializes against any proposal that allows for incumbent companies to pay for better service from ISPs.

TechCrunch

He had a setback.

Independent

It's not a setback.

The New Yorker

"This is a setback".

The New York Times

Copenhagen was a setback.

The Guardian

It is a setback.

The Guardian - Tech

But for others, it is a setback.

The New York Times - Science

"It's a setback," Coach Chan Gailey said.

The New York Times - Sports

A Setback Nothing came of it.

The New York Times - Sports

"But it's disappointing, a setback".

The New York Times

But it was also a setback.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "a setback materializes" to create a sense of unexpectedness and emergence. It's particularly effective when you want to emphasize that the setback wasn't anticipated or obvious beforehand.

Common error

Avoid using "a setback materializes" in very casual or informal writing. Its slightly formal tone might sound out of place. Opt for simpler alternatives like "a problem came up" or "we hit a snag" in such situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a setback materializes" functions as a clause element, typically the subject complement or part of a larger verb phrase. It describes the unexpected emergence of a problem or obstacle. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is considered grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a setback materializes" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe the unexpected emergence of a problem or obstacle. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is considered grammatically correct and usable in written English. Although relatively rare, it is most commonly found in news and media contexts. When choosing alternatives, consider options like "a problem arises" or "an obstacle emerges" to maintain a similar level of formality. Avoid overusing this phrase in casual conversation, where simpler language might be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an obstacle emerges

Highlights the appearance of an impediment to progress.

a problem arises

Focuses on the emergence of a problem without necessarily implying it's a setback.

a challenge presents itself

Highlights the active appearance of a challenge.

a difficulty surfaces

Emphasizes the revelation of a challenging situation.

a hurdle appears

Suggests a challenge that needs to be overcome.

a complication develops

Indicates a situation becoming more intricate and problematic.

an issue comes to light

Focuses on the discovery or revelation of a problematic matter.

a snag arises

Suggests a minor, unexpected difficulty.

a hitch develops

Similar to "a snag arises", but emphasizes the unexpected nature of the disruption.

trouble brews

Implies that problems are developing gradually.

FAQs

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

You can use "a setback materializes" to describe an unforeseen obstacle that suddenly becomes apparent. For instance, "Despite our careful planning, "a setback materializes", forcing us to reevaluate our timeline."

What's a more common way to say "a setback materializes"?

Alternatives to "a setback materializes" include phrases like "a problem arises", "an obstacle emerges", or "a difficulty surfaces", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "a setback materializes" formal or informal?

"A setback materializes" leans towards a more formal register. In informal contexts, simpler alternatives like "a problem came up" or "we hit a snag" might be more appropriate.

What does it mean when "a setback materializes"?

When ""a setback materializes"", it signifies that an unexpected problem or obstacle has arisen, often hindering progress or plans.