setback for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "setback for" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation where progress is hindered or delayed, often in a negative context. Example: "The unexpected storm was a significant setback for the construction project, pushing the timeline back by several weeks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Sports

Politics

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Personal Setback for Gorbachev?

The New York Times

Well, folks, a big setback for NASA.

The New York Times

Or a major setback for feminism?

Independent

A setback for Cleggie then?

The Guardian - Opinion

This is a minor setback for Leftwich.

The New York Times - Sports

It's a tough setback for him".

The New York Times - Sports

"This is a setback for him.

The New York Times - Sports

It was a setback for Obama.

The Washington Post

Is this a significant setback for Bitcoin?

Harvard Business Review

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

The Washington Post

The case presents the latest setback for UBS.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "setback for", ensure it's followed by a clear indication of what or whom the setback is affecting to maintain clarity and context. For instance, "The delay was a significant setback for the project" is more effective than simply "It was a setback."

Common error

While "setback for" is grammatically sound, avoid using it excessively in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "a problem for" or "bad news for" to maintain a natural and relaxed tone in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "setback for" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject complement or an appositive. It identifies something as a negative event that hinders progress or causes a regression. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Sports

10%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Science

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "setback for" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe a situation that hinders progress. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Analysis of multiple examples demonstrates its common usage across various contexts, particularly in news, business and sports media. While alternatives like "hindrance to" or "obstacle to" exist, "setback for" effectively conveys a sense of temporary regression or impediment. When using the phrase, clarify what or whom the setback affects to maintain clarity. This analysis helps refine your understanding and application of "setback for" in diverse writing scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hindrance to

Focuses on the obstructive aspect of the situation.

obstacle to

Emphasizes a barrier that needs to be overcome.

impediment to

A more formal way of saying obstacle.

reverse for

Highlights the backward movement from the expected progress.

reversal of fortune for

Indicates a negative change in circumstances.

blow to

Emphasizes the sudden and impactful nature of the negative event.

complication for

Highlights the added difficulty caused by the event.

drawback for

Focuses on the disadvantage caused.

downside for

Highlights the negative aspect or consequence.

disadvantage for

Emphasizes the unfavorable position resulting from the event.

FAQs

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

You can use "setback for" to describe a situation that delays progress or creates difficulties for something or someone. For example, "The funding cut was a major setback for the research team."

What are some alternatives to "setback for"?

Alternatives include "hindrance to", "obstacle to", or "blow to", depending on the context.

What is the difference between "setback for" and "drawback for"?

"Setback for" implies a temporary delay or reversal in progress, while "drawback for" refers to a disadvantage or negative aspect.

Is "setback for" formal or informal?

"Setback for" is suitable for both formal and neutral contexts, but may sound slightly elevated in very informal situations where simpler alternatives are preferred.