possible setbacks

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "possible setbacks" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when discussing potential challenges or obstacles that may arise in a plan or project. For example, "We need to prepare for possible setbacks in the timeline of the project." Alternative expressions include "potential challenges" and "likely obstacles."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Such new technologies are fraught with possible setbacks, however, on the path from laboratory bench to bedside.

The New York Times

When he speaks of possible setbacks in Iraq and a long fight against terrorists, analysts say, Mr. Giuliani enhances that image, sounding tough but realistic.

The New York Times

Andrew Cuomo's All Things Possible: Setbacks and Success in Politics and Life was published in October on the eve of the New York governor's second-term election.

The Guardian - Books

Regardless of the challenges, and possible setbacks to vital negotiations, senior American officials said on Sunday that the mission had to go on.

The New York Times

Although the debate over the bill focuses on the possible setbacks for disadvantaged castes, it rarely addresses whether quotas for women are of themselves desirable.

The New York Times

But I would be remiss if I didn't mention possible setbacks ahead to the social progress made in the past eight years.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

Now Moore aims to once again parlay a possible setback in Montgomery into defiant victory.

The Guardian

After a possible setback at the end of last year due to the harsh winter the economy should pick up speed again in the first half of the year".

The Guardian

A possible setback: Mark Tresidder, another Avant official, said the state's latest forecast included talk of sinking temperatures, an ice storm, maybe snow.

The New York Times - Science

"After a possible setback at the end of last year due to the harsh winter, the economy should pick up speed again in the first half," Mr. Brzeski said.

The New York Times

What now troubles Francois Heisbourg, who heads the Institute for Strategic Studies here, is a possible setback for the Start treaty, scheduled for completion at a Moscow summit in February.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "possible setbacks" when you want to sound realistic and prepared in project proposals or professional reports. It pairs effectively with proactive verbs like 'anticipate', 'mitigate' or 'prepare for'.

Common error

Avoid using a singular verb when "possible setbacks" is the subject of the sentence. Since 'setbacks' is plural, ensure you use 'are' instead of 'is'. For example, say 'The "possible setbacks" are manageable' rather than 'The "possible setbacks" is manageable'.

Linguistic Context

In the examples provided by Ludwig, "possible setbacks" functions as a noun phrase typically serving as the direct object of a verb or the object of a preposition. It combines a qualifying adjective with a plural noun to express contingency.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "possible setbacks" is a grammatically correct and highly versatile expression. According to Ludwig AI, it is a Common phrase that carries significant weight in high-authority publications, particularly within News & Media. Its usage across various domains—ranging from politics to medical science—highlights its utility in discussing future risks. Whether you are drafting a news report or a business plan, using "possible setbacks" demonstrates a balanced and realistic perspective on the challenges ahead.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

potential setbacks

Uses 'potential' to suggest a more inherent or latent risk compared to the broader 'possible'

possible obstacles

Replaces 'setbacks' with 'obstacles' to emphasize tangible or logical barriers to progress

potential hurdles

Employs a metaphor suggesting difficulties that must be overcome through effort

likely delays

Focuses specifically on the time-based aspect of a setback rather than general failure

unforeseen challenges

Adds the nuance that the difficulties were not predicted or anticipated in advance

possible pitfalls

Suggests hidden or unexpected dangers rather than just visible obstacles

prospective difficulties

A slightly more formal and academic way to describe problems expected in the future

contingent risks

Framed in business or risk management terms, suggesting issues dependent on specific conditions

eventual complications

Implies that issues may arise as a situation develops or progresses over time

expected reversals

Indicates a stronger negative turn where progress is actually undone

FAQs

How to use "possible setbacks" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe potential issues in a plan, such as "We must account for any "possible setbacks" before launching the initiative."

What can I say instead of "possible setbacks"?

Depending on the context, you could use "potential challenges", "likely obstacles" or "future difficulties".

Is it more formal to use "possible setbacks" or "potential setbacks"?

Both are professional, but "potential setbacks" is often preferred in technical or scientific writing while "possible setbacks" is extremely common in general news media.

What is the difference between "possible setbacks" and "unforeseen delays"?

While "possible setbacks" refers to any kind of broad obstacle, "unforeseen delays" specifically highlights that the issues were not expected and primarily impact the timeline of a project.