significant setbacks

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "significant setbacks" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe major obstacles or challenges that hinder progress in a particular situation or project. Example: "The team faced significant setbacks during the project, which delayed the final delivery date."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Business

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

Indeed, Spain recently suffered some significant setbacks in the region.

The New York Times

The Mets are 10-15 and have sustained some significant setbacks.

The New York Times - Sports

Injuries, most notably a season-ending one to center Anderson Varejao, led to significant setbacks.

The New York Times - Sports

The rain stayed away, the clouds thinned, and the countdown, which encountered no significant setbacks, continued.

The New York Times - Science

Even though Friday's draw was favorable for the Americans, the team has endured some significant setbacks since the Confederations Cup.

The New York Times - Sports

Business had recently been improving for the lodging industry, after the significant setbacks suffered during the recession.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

"This is a significant setback.

The New York Times

It would also be a significant setback for Isis.

The Guardian

Losing the deal would be a significant setback for EMI.

The New York Times

The ruling today represents a significant setback to that strategy.

The New York Times

But yesterday's acquittal appeared to be a significant setback.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "significant setbacks", ensure the context clearly defines the area or project facing the hindrances. This provides clarity and prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "significant setbacks" for minor inconveniences. Reserve the phrase for situations where progress is genuinely and considerably hampered.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "significant setbacks" functions as a noun phrase typically used as an object or subject complement. It identifies events or circumstances that negatively impact progress, plans, or expectations, as supported by examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Sports

15%

Science

13%

Less common in

Business

9%

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "significant setbacks" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that describes major hindrances or reversals in progress. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and widespread usage across various contexts, including news, sports, and business. While the phrase is appropriate for many situations, it's best reserved for cases where progress is genuinely and considerably affected. Alternatives such as "major impediments" or "substantial difficulties" can offer nuanced variations. Being mindful of these usage patterns ensures clarity and avoids overstatement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

major impediments

Emphasizes the obstructive nature of the challenges.

serious reverses

Highlights the idea of a negative change in fortune or progress.

substantial difficulties

Focuses on the considerable level of trouble encountered.

considerable obstacles

Stresses the scale and impact of the barriers.

notable downturns

Highlights a decline or decrease in performance or condition.

major stumbling blocks

Implies significant hindrances that impede progress.

severe impediments

Underscores the harsh or strict nature of the obstacles.

grave challenges

Highlights the seriousness and importance of the difficulties.

formidable obstacles

Suggests that the obstacles are difficult to overcome.

marked regressions

Emphasizes a return to a previous, less developed state.

FAQs

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

You can use "significant setbacks" to describe major obstacles or challenges that hinder progress in a particular project or situation. For example: "The project experienced "significant setbacks" due to unforeseen circumstances."

What are some alternatives to "significant setbacks"?

Alternatives to "significant setbacks" include "major impediments", "serious reverses", or "substantial difficulties", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the term "significant setbacks"?

Use "significant setbacks" when describing situations where there are substantial hindrances or reversals that genuinely impact progress. It's not suitable for minor or trivial issues.

What's the difference between "significant setbacks" and "minor delays"?

"Significant setbacks" implies a considerable impact on progress, often causing substantial disruption or lasting effects. "Minor delays", on the other hand, refer to small, temporary postponements that do not critically affect the overall outcome.