despite setbacks

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "despite setbacks" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is being accomplished or pursued regardless of difficulties or obstacles encountered along the way. Example: "Despite setbacks, the team continued to work diligently towards their goal of launching the new product."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Despite setbacks, Ostula persisted.

The Washington Post

But new ideas continue to roll out despite setbacks.

The New York Times - Tech

Despite setbacks, it has always done just that.

The New York Times

Yet even in modern times, this cozy relationship has flourished, despite setbacks like the Great Depression.

The New York Times

Conditions in Somalia remain difficult for aid agencies, despite setbacks experienced by al-Shabaab.

The Guardian

Despite setbacks and missteps, I strongly believe we did and are doing the right thing.

The Guardian

Despite setbacks in each of these cities, Wal-Mart has had success in urban areas.

The New York Times

Despite setbacks, Artaxerxes II and the empire had weathered the Revolt of the Satraps.

Britannica

Incremental change over time is thus possible, and even likely, despite setbacks in the short term.

The Washington Post

And she and others said that despite setbacks, women — including gynecologists, economists and judges — were still driving the revolution.

The New York Times

Since his hospital stay two years ago, and despite setbacks, Mr. Johnson, 27, has been getting his life on track.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "despite setbacks", consider specifying what the setbacks were to provide context and show a clear understanding of the challenges faced. This makes your statement more informative and impactful.

Common error

Avoid using "despite setbacks" when the challenges are ongoing and actively preventing progress. The phrase is most effective when referring to past hurdles that have been overcome or are being actively addressed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "despite setbacks" functions as a prepositional phrase. It's used to introduce a contrast, indicating that something has occurred or continues to occur even though there have been negative events or hindrances. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatically correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "despite setbacks" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to emphasize resilience and continued progress in the face of challenges. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news and media contexts. When writing, remember to specify what the setbacks were for greater clarity and impact. Be mindful that it’s most effective when referring to past hurdles or ongoing efforts to address challenges. Consider using alternatives like "in spite of challenges" or "regardless of obstacles" to vary your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

regardless of obstacles

Highlights the irrelevance of obstacles to the pursued goal.

in spite of the problems

Uses a more direct term than "setbacks".

even with challenges

Replaces "setbacks" with a broader term, focusing on difficulties in general.

undeterred by failures

Focuses on the lack of discouragement caused by failures.

in the face of adversity

Emphasizes the confrontational aspect of overcoming difficulties.

challenges notwithstanding

Emphasizes the persistence despite the challenges.

notwithstanding the difficulties

A more formal way of saying "despite the difficulties".

even though there were impediments

Highlights the presence of hindrances.

unfazed by the issues

Emphasizes a lack of concern or worry regarding the issues faced.

with resilience amid adversity

Adds the element of "resilience", focusing on bouncing back from setbacks.

FAQs

How can I use "despite setbacks" in a sentence?

You can use "despite setbacks" to show resilience or continued effort after facing difficulties. For example: "Despite setbacks, the project was successfully completed."

What are some alternatives to "despite setbacks"?

Alternatives include "in spite of challenges", "regardless of obstacles", or "even with difficulties". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "despite setbacks" or "in spite of setbacks"?

Both "despite setbacks" and "in spite of setbacks" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. The choice often comes down to personal preference or stylistic considerations, as they are largely interchangeable.

Can "despite setbacks" be used at the beginning of a sentence?

Yes, "despite setbacks" can effectively introduce a sentence to highlight the continuation of something despite previous challenges. For example: "Despite setbacks, the company managed to increase its profits this year."