major setback for expectations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "major setback for expectations" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing an event or situation that significantly hinders or alters anticipated outcomes or goals. Example: "The unexpected loss of funding was a major setback for expectations regarding the project's timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Or a major setback for feminism?

Independent

A major setback for Tyndall would be a major setback for her.

The Washington Post

Leaving Lincoln Center was a major setback for Mr. Whitehead.

The New York Times - Arts

It's a major setback for Republicans on two counts.

The Washington Post

Poor performance of anode electrode in MFC is still a major setback for its practical applications.

Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews

High summer temperature is a major setback for successful greenhouse crop production throughout year.

Energy and Buildings

A major setback for microbial production of aromatics is the high toxicity of the products.

Journal of Biotechnology

It was a major setback for Avalon, which had been lobbying for a significant expansion.

The New Yorker

The economic crisis, however, was a major setback for the neighborhood's development.

The New York Times

Human rights abusers may be rejoicing today, but this is a major setback for their victims".

The New York Times

It's a major setback for the club as a whole, of course it is.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "major setback for expectations", ensure that the context clearly defines whose expectations are being discussed and what specific outcomes were anticipated. This adds clarity and strengthens the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "major setback for expectations" in overly general or vague situations. Be specific about the expectations that were not met to maintain clarity and avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "major setback for expectations" functions as a noun phrase, describing an event or situation that negatively impacts anticipated outcomes. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct but lacks extensive real-world examples.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while grammatically sound, the phrase "major setback for expectations" is not frequently used. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness but notes the limited real-world examples. Alternative phrases like "significant disappointment relative to forecasts" or "substantial impediment to anticipated results" may offer clearer and more impactful communication. When using the phrase, ensure clarity about whose expectations are referenced. The lack of widespread usage suggests it may not be the most idiomatic choice in many contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant disappointment relative to forecasts

Replaces "setback" with "disappointment" and "expectations" with "forecasts", emphasizing the emotional response to unmet predictions.

substantial impediment to anticipated results

Substitutes "setback" with "impediment" and "expectations" with "anticipated results", creating a more formal and technical tone.

considerable obstacle to projected outcomes

Replaces "setback" with "obstacle" and "expectations" with "projected outcomes", focusing on the challenges in achieving the desired results.

major blow to anticipated progress

Uses "blow" instead of "setback", indicating a more forceful and negative impact on progress.

notable impediment to prospective achievements

Similar to "substantial impediment", but uses "prospective achievements" instead of "anticipated results".

significant reversal of foreseen trends

Focuses on the deviation from expected trends rather than unmet goals.

serious hitch in anticipated developments

Replaces "setback" with "hitch", suggesting a temporary disruption rather than a complete failure.

significant impediment in reaching targets

This focuses on not reaching targets

major snag in anticipated timeline

The word "snag" points to a relatively small and easily fixed problem

considerable difficulty in meeting goals

The phrase focus on the difficulty

FAQs

How can I use "major setback for expectations" in a sentence?

While less common, you can use "major setback for expectations" to describe a situation where anticipated outcomes are significantly hindered. For example: "The unexpected budget cuts were a major setback for expectations regarding the project's scope."

What are some alternatives to "major setback for expectations"?

Consider alternatives such as "significant disappointment relative to forecasts", "substantial impediment to anticipated results", or "considerable obstacle to projected outcomes" for similar meanings.

Is "major setback for expectations" grammatically correct?

Yes, "major setback for expectations" is grammatically correct, but it may sound less natural than other similar phrases. Its effectiveness depends on the specific context and the desired level of formality.

What does "major setback for expectations" imply?

It implies that there has been a significant negative event that has made it harder or impossible to achieve what was originally predicted or hoped for.