an unfortunate setback

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an unfortunate setback" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where progress has been hindered or delayed due to an unexpected problem or difficulty. Example: "The project faced an unfortunate setback when the main supplier went out of business unexpectedly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Harry Reid, the Democratic leader in the Senate, said the supreme court decision was "an unfortunate setback" and completely unexpected.

The Guardian

"While this is an unfortunate setback, I feel grateful that up until now I have remained mostly healthy throughout my career.

Independent

David Davis, who stood against Cameron for the party leadership, said the result was an "unfortunate" setback for the PM but added that Cameron had made "quite a shaky argument" about Assad's responsibility in the attack.

The Guardian

In our view, this is an unfortunate setback due to inappropriate task design and does not refute the core idea of cognitive enhancement.

Trends in Cognitive Sciences

A policy has the power to guide and mold the direction of societal movements or cause an unfortunate setback.

Huffington Post

"We are constantly looking to engage Hispanic media outlets on a variety of issues including jobs, education and immigration reform, and will continue to do so, but it's certainly an unfortunate setback when Jorge Ramos is launching ad hominem attacks on Republican leaders absent substance or civility," said the aide, who requested anonymity to discuss the criticisms.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Mobutu said reports of heavy fighting in the southeast were exaggerated and dismissed the pillaging in Kinshasa as a temporary and unfortunate setback.

Vice

"We will continue to work through this unfortunate setback with all partners involved to ensure a first-class field is produced for our deserving student-athletes".

Huffington Post

A number of factors, all under your direct control, have contributed to this unfortunate setback.

The New Yorker

"Unfortunate setback but I am used to the adversity, just another chapter before the Hollywood finish in Sochi!" Alcott, who has twice finished 11th at the Olympics and is targeting a top-eight finish in Russia in February, has been training with the Norwegian team ahead of the 2013-14 season.

BBC

For women, 2014 was a year of great steps forward -- and unfortunate setbacks.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an unfortunate setback", ensure the context clearly indicates what the original plan or goal was, and how the setback has affected it. This provides clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "an unfortunate setback" for major catastrophes. This phrase implies a temporary delay or minor issue, not a complete failure or disaster.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an unfortunate setback" functions as a noun phrase that describes a situation or event that has caused a delay or hindrance. It softens the impact of the negative event, framing it as something less severe than a complete failure. Ludwig AI confirms this by providing examples where the phrase is used to describe delays in projects, policy changes, or personal goals.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

33%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an unfortunate setback" is a versatile phrase used to describe a temporary delay or minor hindrance. Ludwig AI confirms that its grammatical construction is correct and that it commonly appears in news, science, and business contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure that the context clearly defines the original goal and the impact of the setback to provide clear and impactful communication. Be cautious not to use it for major disasters or complete failures, as it implies a less severe situation. Instead, consider alternatives like "a regrettable hitch" or "a disappointing obstacle" for similar but nuanced meanings. The phrase maintains a neutral register and is suitable for formal and informal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a regrettable hitch

Replaces "unfortunate setback" with synonyms that emphasize the element of regret and unexpectedness.

a disappointing obstacle

Substitutes "unfortunate setback" with terms that highlight the feeling of disappointment and the obstructive nature of the event.

a discouraging development

Replaces the original phrase with words that focus on the disheartening aspect of the event.

a minor complication

Replaces "unfortunate setback" emphasizing the mildness and complexity of the event.

an unwelcome delay

Changes the phrase to highlight the aspect of the event that causes something to occur later or more slowly than expected.

a temporary reverse

Replaces the original phrase with words that focus on the characteristic of the event being not permanent.

an adverse circumstance

Focuses on the negative conditions or situations arising from the event.

an inopportune incident

Highlights the inconvenient and poorly timed nature of the event.

a stroke of bad luck

This alternative expresses the idea of misfortune or ill-fated events.

a bump in the road

Uses an idiomatic expression to describe a minor problem or difficulty.

FAQs

How can I use "an unfortunate setback" in a sentence?

You can use "an unfortunate setback" to describe a temporary delay or minor issue that has hindered progress. For example: "The project faced "an unfortunate setback" when the main supplier went out of business unexpectedly."

What are some alternatives to "an unfortunate setback"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a regrettable hitch", "a disappointing obstacle", or "a discouraging development", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "an unfortunate setback" in formal writing?

Yes, "an unfortunate setback" is suitable for formal writing. It's a neutral and professional way to describe a minor problem. More informal alternatives might include "a bump in the road".

What distinguishes "an unfortunate setback" from "a disaster"?

"An unfortunate setback" implies a temporary delay or manageable issue, while "a disaster" suggests a complete failure or catastrophe. The scale and severity of the event determine which phrase is more appropriate.