several setbacks

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "several setbacks" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe multiple difficulties or obstacles encountered in a process or situation. Example: "Despite several setbacks during the project, the team managed to meet the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Obama suffered several setbacks.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The company has suffered several setbacks.

The New York Times

She had already survived several setbacks.

The Guardian - Music

Despite the strong sales, Novartis has suffered several setbacks.

The New York Times

After several setbacks, the Mets are willing to try anything.

The New York Times - Sports

In recent years, however, there have been few further advances and several setbacks.

The Economist

There is evidence to support the assumption that Ardashīr's rise to power suffered several setbacks.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The win has been accompanied by several setbacks, though, since the Olympics opened on Friday.

The New York Times

The failure of the Refresh campaign is one of several setbacks that Nooyi has experienced lately.

The New Yorker

New Jersey's early efforts to enter the counterterrorism field met with several setbacks.

The New York Times

Takeda's growth is more striking because it overcame several setbacks in recent months.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "several setbacks" when you need to convey a sense of multiple, distinct issues rather than a single overarching problem. This emphasizes the variety and perhaps the compounding effect of the difficulties.

Common error

Avoid simply stating "several setbacks" without providing any context or specifics. This can leave the reader wondering what exactly went wrong and why it matters. Always follow up with concrete examples or explanations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "several setbacks" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as an object or complement in a sentence. It describes a situation involving multiple adverse events or difficulties. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Science

14%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "several setbacks" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to describe multiple difficulties or obstacles encountered in a particular situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for both formal and informal contexts, although it appears most commonly in news and media. When using this phrase, it's important to provide specific examples or context to illustrate the nature of the setbacks. Alternatives include "multiple difficulties", "various obstacles", and "numerous impediments", each offering a slightly different nuance. By providing clear context and specific details, you can effectively convey the impact of these setbacks and enhance the clarity of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

multiple difficulties

Focuses on the numerous problems encountered.

various obstacles

Highlights the different impediments faced.

numerous impediments

Emphasizes the high number of obstacles.

repeated challenges

Underscores the recurring nature of the difficulties.

a series of failures

Emphasizes the unsuccessful outcomes.

a string of reverses

Highlights a succession of negative outcomes.

a chapter of misfortunes

Focuses on unfortunate events.

successive downward slides

Describes a pattern of decline.

several steps backward

Emphasizes regression in progress.

many complications

Highlights the complexity and difficulties involved.

FAQs

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

You can use "several setbacks" to describe a situation where multiple difficulties have occurred, for example, "Despite "several setbacks", the project was eventually completed successfully."

What are some alternatives to "several setbacks"?

Alternatives include "multiple difficulties", "various obstacles", or "numerous impediments", depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "several setbacks" and "a major setback"?

"Several setbacks" implies multiple distinct issues, while "a major setback" refers to a single, significant problem that hinders progress. For example, "The company faced "several setbacks" during the year," versus "The cancellation of the contract was a major setback".

Is it appropriate to use "several setbacks" in formal writing?

Yes, "several setbacks" is appropriate for formal writing. It is a neutral and professional way to describe difficulties or problems encountered in a project, process, or situation.