minor setback

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'minor setback' is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used to refer to a problem or difficulty that is relatively small and easily overcome. For example: "I had an important presentation to do, but I was running late due to a minor setback."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

General

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It's a minor setback.

The New York Times - Sports

"This is a minor setback," Gardenhire said.

The New York Times - Sports

"This is just a minor setback".

The New York Times - Sports

This is a minor setback for Leftwich.

The New York Times - Sports

"Let's hope it's a minor setback," Coach Dan Reeves said.

The New York Times - Sports

General Manager BRIAN CASHMAN called it a minor setback.

The New York Times - Sports

"He's had a minor setback," Dreaper has said today.

The Guardian - Sport

After the hardship they had endured since January, this was a minor setback.

The New York Times

While the F.B.I. described the problems as a minor setback, Congressional officials said they were alarmed.

The New York Times

We're not talking about some minor setback along the way, but something more fundamental.

The New York Times

Even the bursting of the tech bubble proved only a minor setback.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "minor setback" to downplay negative events in professional communication, reassuring stakeholders that projects are still on track despite small obstacles.

Common error

Avoid using "minor setback" to describe situations that have major implications or long-term consequences. Overusing the phrase in serious contexts can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "minor setback" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig illustrates, it often describes a temporary obstacle or delay. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Sport

22%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Huffington Post

5%

Science Magazine

1%

Princeton University

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "minor setback" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a small, temporary problem. As shown by Ludwig, it's used across various domains, most frequently in News & Media and Sport. The key is to use it appropriately, ensuring the issue truly is minor and avoiding exaggeration. When you want to convey a similar meaning, consider alternatives like "slight hitch" or "small difficulty". Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and widely used in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slight hitch

This alternative focuses on the small and often unexpected nature of the problem.

small difficulty

This is a more general term emphasizing the easiness to overcome a challenge.

temporary hurdle

Highlights the temporary nature of the obstacle and the need to overcome it.

minor inconvenience

Emphasizes the bothersome but not critical nature of the issue.

small delay

Focuses specifically on the aspect of time and the slowing down of progress.

temporary slowdown

Suggests a reduction in pace rather than a complete stop.

brief interruption

Highlights the short duration of the disruption.

passing difficulty

Stresses that the problem is transient and will soon be over.

fleeting obstacle

Emphasizes the brief and insignificant nature of the impediment.

short-term challenge

Focuses on the limited duration of the difficulty and the call to overcome it.

FAQs

What does "minor setback" mean?

A "minor setback" refers to a small problem or temporary delay that doesn't significantly impact the overall progress or outcome of a project or goal.

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

You might say, "The project experienced a "minor setback" due to unforeseen technical issues, but we're working to resolve them quickly."

What are some alternatives to "minor setback"?

You can use alternatives like "slight hitch", "small difficulty", or "temporary hurdle" to express a similar idea.

Is it appropriate to use "minor setback" in formal writing?

Yes, "minor setback" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly in business or project management contexts, to acknowledge small issues without causing undue alarm.