a succession of setbacks

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a succession of setbacks" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a series of difficulties or challenges that occur one after another. Example: "Despite facing a succession of setbacks in her career, she remained determined to achieve her goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Their week had been a succession of setbacks and breakthroughs.

The New Yorker

The vote was the latest in a succession of setbacks for advocates of gay marriage across the country.

The New York Times

But a succession of setbacks and the possibility of another mainstream rival joining the race has, to some degree, checked the presumptive-ness of the presumptive candidate.

The Guardian

Party staffers shed "a lot of tears" at Labour HQ as they received news of a succession of setbacks in marginal English seats and all but one of the party's 41 seats in Scotland were swept away by the SNP.

Independent

But this week it has become unmistakable that President Bush's team has had to rethink its approaches on Iraq and North Korea after a succession of setbacks and pressures at home and abroad.

The New York Times

He has recently suffered a succession of setbacks in his attempt to reach full fitness, prompting the Hammers' medical staff to seek the advice of independent specialists, who recommended an operation.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

A succession of City banks followed.

Independent

A succession of Gucci campaigns followed.

The New York Times

A succession of creditors.

The New Yorker

Jerome played a succession of noblemen.

The Guardian

Then came a succession of warm days.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a succession of setbacks", ensure the context clearly establishes the sequential and related nature of the difficulties. For example, "The project faced a succession of setbacks, from funding cuts to unexpected technical glitches."

Common error

Avoid using passive voice when describing the causes of "a succession of setbacks". Instead of saying "The project was hampered by a succession of setbacks", be direct: "A succession of setbacks hampered the project".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a succession of setbacks" functions as a noun phrase. It typically acts as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence, describing a series of unfortunate events or obstacles. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is valid and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a succession of setbacks" is a grammatically correct and usable expression to describe a series of unfortunate events or difficulties, as affirmed by Ludwig. While not exceedingly common, it appears frequently in news and media contexts. When writing, ensure that the sequential and related nature of the difficulties are clear and be mindful of avoiding passive voice. Related phrases include "a series of misfortunes" and "a string of failures", offering nuanced alternatives. Ultimately, "a succession of setbacks" serves to inform and emphasize the repeated challenges faced by a subject, making it a valuable tool in descriptive writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a series of misfortunes

Emphasizes bad luck or unfortunate events occurring one after another.

a string of failures

Focuses specifically on unsuccessful outcomes in a consecutive manner.

a chain of unfortunate events

Highlights the negative and accidental nature of the sequential occurrences.

a run of bad luck

Informal way to describe a period marked by negative outcomes and chance.

a streak of adversity

Suggests a continuous period of hardship and challenges.

a plethora of difficulties

Highlights that there are many obstacles or problems.

a chapter of challenges

Reframes a period of time characterized by tests and struggles.

a barrage of obstacles

Emphasizes the overwhelming and forceful nature of the difficulties.

an array of impediments

Formal and emphasizes a diverse set of obstructions.

a heap of troubles

Informal, conveying that there are a significant number of concerns or difficulties.

FAQs

What does "a succession of setbacks" mean?

The phrase "a succession of setbacks" means a series or sequence of unfortunate events, difficulties, or failures that occur one after another, hindering progress or success.

What can I say instead of "a succession of setbacks"?

You can use alternatives like "a series of misfortunes", "a string of failures", or "a chain of unfortunate events" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "a succession of setbacks" or "a series of setbacks"?

Both "a succession of setbacks" and "a series of setbacks" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. The choice between them often comes down to personal preference, although "a succession of setbacks" might subtly emphasize the sequential and continuous nature of the difficulties.

How can I use "a succession of setbacks" in a sentence?

You can use "a succession of setbacks" to describe a situation where someone or something faces repeated difficulties. For example: "Despite experiencing "a succession of setbacks", the team remained resilient and determined to succeed."