be beset by numerous setbacks

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be beset by numerous setbacks" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone or something is facing multiple difficulties or challenges. Example: "Despite their best efforts, the project was beset by numerous setbacks that delayed its completion."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Research addressing problems associated with stream corridor ecosystem restoration is beset by numerous problems.

Ecological Engineering

The project was beset by numerous stumbling blocks; four sponsors came and went.

The New York Times

The priest of this temple became dynast of Cilicia Tracheia; and then the country was beset by numerous tyrants, and the gangs of pirates were organised.

University of Chicago

The free people of the West could reasonably have been expected to realize that they are beset by numerous freely nurtured falsehoods, and not to allow lies to be foisted upon them so easily.

HuffPost

Pfizer has been beset by patent expirations, research setbacks and federal investigations over illegal marketing.

The New York Times

But the ocean power industry has been beset by a number of setbacks, including abandoned projects and very long development times.

MIT Technology Review

Pfizer has been beset by a management changes, federal investigations and a series of research setbacks in recent months.

The New York Times

He failed to fully settle in Italy and was beset by negative media interest which was not helped by the numerous occasions he punched reporters and the time when he belched down a microphone on live television.

Wikipedia

Energy policy is beset by deep uncertainties, owing to the scale of future transitions, the long-term timescales for action, and numerous stakeholders.

Energy Research & Social Science

Industry is beset by strikes.

The Economist

He was beset by contradictory advice.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be beset by numerous setbacks", ensure the subject is clearly defined and the setbacks are relevant to the subject's progress or well-being. This provides context and clarifies the impact of the setbacks.

Common error

Avoid using "be beset by numerous setbacks" for minor or easily resolved issues. This phrase implies significant and persistent difficulties, so reserve it for situations where the challenges are genuinely substantial.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be beset by numerous setbacks" functions as a descriptive statement, indicating that a subject is experiencing a series of difficulties. This usage aligns with Ludwig's indication of correctness.

Expression frequency: Missing

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be beset by numerous setbacks" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a situation characterized by significant and recurring difficulties. While examples are currently lacking, it's recognized by Ludwig as correct and serves to highlight the challenges faced by a subject. Alternative phrasings such as "face multiple hurdles" or "encounter significant obstacles" can be used to convey similar meanings with slightly different nuances. When employing this phrase, ensure the severity of the setbacks is accurately represented and relevant to the subject's progress. Despite the absence of usage examples, the phrase remains a viable option for describing challenging circumstances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Encounter significant obstacles

Focuses on the act of encountering problems, rather than being continuously affected by them.

Face multiple hurdles

Uses the metaphor of hurdles to represent challenges, implying a need to overcome them one by one.

Experience repeated impediments

Highlights the recurring nature of the obstacles, suggesting a pattern of hindrance.

Struggle against a series of difficulties

Emphasizes the ongoing effort required to deal with the problems.

Be plagued by constant issues

Implies that the issues are persistent and troublesome.

Suffer from frequent complications

Highlights the negative impact of the problems, suggesting a state of suffering.

Contend with various challenges

Focuses on the act of contending or dealing with the challenges, implying a proactive approach.

Grapple with numerous adversities

Suggests a more intense and difficult struggle against misfortune.

Be hindered by multiple obstacles

Highlights how obstacles are preventing forward motion or progress.

Be hampered by recurring problems

Emphasizes the limitations and restrictions caused by the recurring problems.

FAQs

How can I use "be beset by numerous setbacks" in a sentence?

You can use "be beset by numerous setbacks" to describe a project, person, or organization facing many difficulties, such as "The project was "beset by numerous setbacks", delaying its completion."

What are some alternatives to "be beset by numerous setbacks"?

Alternatives include phrases like "face multiple hurdles", "encounter significant obstacles", or "struggle against a series of difficulties", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "be beset with numerous setbacks" instead of "be beset by numerous setbacks"?

While "be beset by" is the more common and generally preferred phrasing, "be beset with" can also be used, though it might sound slightly less formal or archaic. However, "beset by numerous setbacks" is widely recognized and accepted.

What does "beset" mean in the context of "be beset by numerous setbacks"?

In this context, "beset" means to be troubled or persistently attacked by something. It implies that the subject is constantly facing difficulties or problems.