occurrence of setbacks

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "occurrence of setbacks" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the events or instances of difficulties or challenges that arise in a particular context, such as projects or personal goals. Example: "The occurrence of setbacks during the project was unexpected, but we managed to adapt and find solutions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

It is a struggle in which the only certainty is the occurrence of setbacks.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

It has suffered a string of setbacks.

The Economist

These were the latest in a series of setbacks.

The Economist

However, there were a number of setbacks too.

The Guardian

The design phase proceeded slowly, with its share of setbacks.

The New York Times

Ms. McCarthy said she was wiser after years of setbacks.

The New York Times

He never quite got over a string of setbacks.

The New York Times

But a series of setbacks almost derailed it.

The New York Times

The bargaining follows a series of setbacks for the government.

The New Yorker

But Mr. Picard suffered a number of setbacks.

The New York Times

These movements have had plenty of setbacks and disappointments.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "occurrence of setbacks", consider the context. For a more formal tone, maintain the phrase; for less formal situations, alternatives like "challenges" or "difficulties" might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "occurrence of setbacks" in casual or informal contexts where simpler alternatives like "challenges" or "problems" would be more suitable. Overly formal language can make your writing sound stilted or unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "occurrence of setbacks" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence or clause. According to Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and usable in written English. It refers to the presence or instance of difficulties or challenges.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

20%

Science

40%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "occurrence of setbacks" is a grammatically correct noun phrase that denotes the presence or instance of problems or difficulties. As Ludwig confirms, it is usable, however, the examples suggest it is more appropriate for formal contexts. When writing, remember that simpler terms can often replace it in informal situations. The phrase serves to acknowledge and discuss potential challenges, fitting well in news, scientific, and technical discussions. Related phrases could be "instances of adversity" or "times of difficulty", depending on how you want to rephrase the original meaning. Finally, it is crucial to consider the context and audience to determine if more straightforward wording would improve clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

instances of adversity

Replaces "setbacks" with a broader term for difficulties and "occurrence" with "instances".

times of difficulty

Focuses on periods of trouble, replacing "occurrence" with "times" and "setbacks" with "difficulty".

periods of adversity

Highlights the duration of difficult times, substituting "occurrence" with "periods" and "setbacks" with "adversity".

moments of relapse

Emphasizes specific instances of regression, changing "setbacks" to "relapse" and "occurrence" to "moments".

reversals of fortune

Focuses on changes in circumstances, replacing "occurrence" with an implied presence and "setbacks" with "reversals of fortune".

challenges encountered

Highlights the experience of facing difficulties, substituting "occurrence" with the active word "encountered" and "setbacks" with the more active word "challenges".

problems arising

Focuses on the emergence of difficulties, changing "occurrence" to "arising" and "setbacks" to "problems".

difficulties experienced

Highlights the personal experience of hardship, substituting "setbacks" with "difficulties" and "occurrence" with "experienced".

obstacles faced

Emphasizes the presence of barriers, replacing "occurrence" with the action of "faced" and "setbacks" with "obstacles".

complications unfolding

Focuses on the gradual development of difficulties, changing "occurrence" to "unfolding" and "setbacks" to "complications".

FAQs

How can I use "occurrence of setbacks" in a sentence?

You can use "occurrence of setbacks" to describe situations where unexpected problems or difficulties arise. For example, "The project faced numerous challenges, including the unexpected "occurrence of setbacks" due to supply chain disruptions."

What are some alternatives to "occurrence of setbacks"?

Alternatives include phrases like "instances of adversity", "times of difficulty", or simply "challenges". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is "occurrence of setbacks" formal or informal?

"Occurrence of setbacks" leans towards the formal side. For informal contexts, consider alternatives like "challenges" or "hitches".

What's the difference between "occurrence of setbacks" and "a series of setbacks"?

"Occurrence of setbacks" generally refers to the abstract idea or possibility of difficulties arising. "A series of setbacks" implies that multiple specific problems have already happened.