minor setbacks

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "minor setbacks" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to small obstacles or difficulties that do not significantly hinder progress. Example: "Despite facing some minor setbacks during the project, we were able to meet our deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

Minor setbacks turned him into a major wreck.

The New York Times - Sports

Even the most minor setbacks, in those months, could throw Ally completely.

The New Yorker

Many die at the end of a session, when the deadlines turn even minor setbacks into fatal time delays.

The New York Times

But for Giambi, there may be no minor illnesses or minor setbacks this late in the season.

The New York Times - Sports

He then suffered an ankle setback towards the end of last season which required surgery and this season a series of minor setbacks have curtailed his progress.

Independent

"People seemed to be less aggravated by minor setbacks," he said, "for example by not being able to get their kids to do something at a certain time".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

"This is a minor setback," Gardenhire said.

The New York Times - Sports

"It's a minor setback.

The New York Times - Sports

This is a minor setback for Leftwich.

The New York Times - Sports

"This is just a minor setback".

The New York Times - Sports

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

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing project management or personal progress, use "minor setbacks" to acknowledge small delays or obstacles without exaggerating their impact. This helps maintain a balanced perspective and encourages resilience.

Common error

Avoid using "minor setbacks" to describe problems that have a substantial impact. Reserve this phrase for genuinely small and easily overcome challenges.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "minor setbacks" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes small, temporary difficulties or obstacles. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "minor setbacks" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that describes small, temporary obstacles. Ludwig AI's analysis indicates that it is commonly found in news, wiki and scientific contexts and serves to acknowledge and downplay challenges while maintaining a positive outlook. When using this phrase, avoid exaggerating the significance of the problems and consider using synonyms such as "small impediments" or "slight difficulties" for variety. Remember to approach "minor setbacks" with resilience, viewing them as opportunities for growth.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

small impediments

Emphasizes the hindering aspect, but uses a more formal term.

slight difficulties

Replaces "setbacks" with a more general term for problems.

trivial obstacles

Highlights the insignificance of the hurdles.

insignificant hitches

Uses a more informal word to describe small problems.

minor glitches

Suitable when referring to technical or procedural issues.

small hiccups

Implies a temporary disruption or pause in progress.

slight complications

Focuses on the entanglement or complexity introduced by the issue.

fleeting difficulties

Underscores the transient nature of the problems.

temporary disruptions

Highlights the interrupting nature of the event.

passing troubles

Emphasizes the short-lived nature of the issues.

FAQs

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

"Minor setbacks" are small, temporary obstacles. For example, "Despite facing some "minor setbacks", the project remained on schedule".

What are some alternatives to saying "minor setbacks"?

You can use alternatives like "small impediments", "slight difficulties", or "trivial obstacles" to convey a similar meaning.

Are "minor setbacks" always negative?

While "minor setbacks" refer to obstacles, they don't necessarily have to be viewed negatively. They can be seen as learning opportunities or temporary challenges that ultimately strengthen resilience.

What's the difference between "minor setbacks" and "major setbacks"?

"Minor setbacks" are small, easily overcome obstacles, whereas "major setbacks" represent significant impediments that can seriously delay or derail progress. The scale of impact is the key differentiator.