a small setback

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small setback" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a minor obstacle or difficulty that temporarily hinders progress. Example: "Despite the small setback in our project timeline, we are still on track to meet our overall goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

"The team is very disappointed and it is a small setback for us," Mertesacker said.

The Guardian - Sport

A small setback -- a rainstorm, a cancellation -- can make things go downhill quickly.

The New York Times - Arts

If the Court rules in the store's favor, the decision would be a small setback for the A.C.A.

The New Yorker

REBOUNDS Baron Davis has had a small setback in his recovery from a back injury, but not because of any specific problems with his back.

The New York Times - Sports

The news is a small setback for the further rise to global dominance of Google's Android operating system but a positive sign for Web standards.

MIT Technology Review

A small setback for American humor: The sensibility that the comedian Jeff Foxworthy used to call "redneck" is being slyly upgraded to "blue collar".

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

The company announced a smaller setback recently, when it said the F.D.A. would delay its decision on approval of Herceptin for early breast cancer by three months, until November.

The New York Times

You get across after just a small little setback.

Huffington Post

Even that small setback was an improvement over some analysts' forecasts.

The New York Times

But because many workers have nearly doubled their pay with extensive overtime for the last seven years, this could still represent a small financial setback for many families, as well as a warning that the economy might not be as strong as it once seemed.

The New York Times

The remaining built-environment feature, small setback, was not significantly related to social support.

Environmental Health Perspectives

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a small setback", follow it with an explanation of how the issue is being addressed to reassure your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "a small setback" to describe situations that have major consequences. Ensure the scale of the phrase matches the reality of the situation to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small setback" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "small" modifies the noun "setback". It acts as a subject complement or object in a sentence, typically describing an event or situation. Ludwig AI confirms its accurate usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Sports

16%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

11%

Wiki

6%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a small setback" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe a minor obstacle or delay. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its suitability across various contexts, primarily in News & Media, Sports, and Business. It's important to accurately assess the scale of the issue to avoid overstating or understating its impact. Related phrases include ""a minor inconvenience"" or ""a slight hitch"". When using this phrase, aim to reassure your audience by emphasizing that the issue is manageable and plans are in place to address it effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a slight delay

This alternative directly addresses the impact on timing, indicating a brief postponement.

a temporary difficulty

This option highlights the transient nature of the problem, indicating it will not last long.

a slight hitch

This phrase suggests a temporary and easily resolved problem, focusing on the smoothness of the overall process.

a temporary slowdown

This highlights a reduction in pace or progress, with the implication of a return to normal speed later.

a minor hurdle

This phrase uses the metaphor of a small obstacle to be jumped over, emphasizing the ability to overcome it.

a minor inconvenience

This alternative emphasizes the bothersome nature of the setback, portraying it as a slight disruption.

a minor complication

This suggests an element of complexity has been introduced, although not of major concern.

a passing challenge

This alternative underscores the idea that the setback is something to be overcome and will eventually pass.

a temporary reverse

This focuses on the backward movement caused by the setback, but clarifies it's only temporary.

a trivial problem

This underlines the unimportance of the event.

FAQs

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

You can use "a small setback" to describe a minor problem or delay in a project, plan, or situation. For example, "The project experienced "a small setback" due to unforeseen circumstances, but we are working to resolve it quickly."

What are some synonyms for "a small setback"?

Some synonyms for "a small setback" include "a minor inconvenience", "a slight hitch", or "a temporary difficulty". The best choice depends on the specific context.

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

Yes, "a small setback" is appropriate for formal writing, especially in business and project management contexts. However, ensure the tone remains professional and that the description accurately reflects the scale of the issue.

What's the difference between "a small setback" and "a major setback"?

"A small setback" indicates a minor and temporary issue, while "a major setback" implies a significant and potentially long-lasting problem. Using the correct phrase helps to accurately convey the impact of the situation.