a total setback

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a total setback" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation where progress has been halted or reversed significantly. Example: "The unexpected storm caused a total setback in our construction schedule, delaying the project by several weeks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The explanation was full of holes, but it was not a total setback for those who want urgent action on global warming.

The New York Times

"It doesn't mean that he's had a total setback or anything.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Flood-affected companies and homeowners across Scotland are counting the cost of the succession of storms, with business services provider PwC predicting that the total setback to the Scottish economy could already be as high as £700m.

Independent

According to the analysis and surgical planning, total setback 5.5 mm, posterior impaction 3.0 mm, and medial shift of maxillary right molar 5.0 mm was planned.

Maxillofacial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

However, the increase of pasting temperature, reduction of peak viscosity and elevation of final viscosity were investigated for all treated non-waxy rice and resulted in the reduction of its breakdown and total setback.

Food Chemistry

Depending on the interpretation, this is either a "total train wreck" or just a "disappointing" setback for the government's nuclear ambitions.

The Guardian - Opinion

The decision was a setback for the makers of the drugs, which advertise heavily and sell millions of pills for a total of $5 billion a year.

The New York Times

This setback in recruiting patient-caregiver dyads prolonged the inclusion period by 4 months to a total of 17 months.

BMC Geriatrics

A total, total gift.

Huffington Post

The aims of this study were (1) to evaluate postoperative stability and (2) to examine bone healing in the pterygomaxillary region after total maxillary setback surgery to correct dentofacial deformities.

Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology and Oral Radiology

Mr. Bush spoke only hours before the Florida Supreme Court ruled that the results of manual recounts in Dade, Broward and Palm Beach Counties must be included in Florida's final vote totals, a substantial legal setback for his brother.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a total setback" when you want to emphasize the complete halt or reversal of progress, indicating a significant negative impact on a project, plan, or situation.

Common error

Avoid using "a total setback" for minor inconveniences or temporary delays. Reserve it for situations where the progress is severely compromised or entirely undone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a total setback" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object of a verb. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use in written English. The "total" emphasizes the completeness of the regression.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a total setback" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a complete halt or reversal of progress. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While relatively rare in occurrence, the phrase appears in diverse fields, from news reports to scientific articles. When using this phrase, be mindful of the severity of the situation to ensure it accurately reflects the magnitude of the setback, avoiding overuse for minor delays. Consider alternatives such as "a complete reversal" or "a major regression" to better fit the context if needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a complete reversal

Focuses on the change in direction, emphasizing the return to a previous state.

a major regression

Highlights a return to a less developed state or condition.

a significant impediment

Emphasizes the obstacle preventing forward movement.

a devastating blow

Stresses the damaging and impactful nature of the setback.

a crushing defeat

Highlights the overwhelming nature of the failure or loss.

a calamitous event

Draws attention to the disastrous nature and far-reaching consequences of the setback.

a crippling blow

Emphasizes the disabling or severely limiting effect of the setback.

a major failure

Directly states the lack of success or achievement.

a fundamental problem

Indicates a deep-seated issue that hinders progress.

a complete standstill

Focuses on the cessation of progress, indicating a halt in activity.

FAQs

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

You can use "a total setback" to describe a situation where progress has been completely halted or reversed. For example: "The unexpected economic downturn caused "a total setback" in our expansion plans".

What are some alternatives to "a total setback"?

Alternatives include "a complete reversal", "a major regression", or "a significant impediment", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

Yes, "a total setback" is appropriate for formal writing when accurately describing a situation where progress has been significantly reversed or halted. However, ensure the context warrants such a strong term.

What's the difference between "a setback" and "a total setback"?

"A setback" implies a temporary delay or minor obstacle, while ""a total setback"" suggests a complete halt or reversal of progress, indicating a more severe and impactful situation.