some setbacks

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "some setbacks" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to difficulties or obstacles encountered in a process or project. Example: "Despite some setbacks during the project, we were able to meet our deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

6. Expect some setbacks.

The New York Times

There were some setbacks.

The New York Times

"We may take some setbacks.

The New York Times - Sports

There have been some setbacks.

The New York Times

But the company encountered some setbacks.

The New York Times

Still, some setbacks will endure.

The Washington Post

Coin production has already seen some setbacks.

The Economist

Yes, there have been some setbacks.

The New York Times

The project has suffered some setbacks.

The New York Times

Despite some setbacks, they are still looking.

The New York Times - Food

Mr. Castro has suffered some setbacks.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "some setbacks" to acknowledge difficulties without overemphasizing them, maintaining a balanced perspective.

Common error

Avoid using "some setbacks" when the difficulties are significant or fundamentally alter the project's trajectory. Choose stronger language to reflect the true impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "some setbacks" functions as a noun phrase. It typically acts as the object of a verb or preposition, indicating the presence of difficulties or obstacles. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "some setbacks" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase used to acknowledge minor difficulties or obstacles. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for written English and appears predominantly in news and media, but also in science and encyclopedia contexts. When writing, use "some setbacks" to admit problems without overstating their impact and also bear in mind that alternatives like "minor difficulties" or "slight delays" may be appropriate depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

minor difficulties

This alternative focuses on the slight nature of the problems encountered.

slight delays

This alternative highlights the temporal aspect of the impediments.

a few stumbling blocks

This alternative suggests there were only a limited number of problems.

temporary impediments

This alternative emphasizes the transient nature of the obstacles.

minor reversals

This alternative focuses on the aspect of going backwards slightly.

occasional hitches

This alternative uses a more informal term to describe temporary disruptions.

small hurdles

This alternative presents the difficulties as challenges to overcome.

glitches along the way

This alternative highlights that problems encountered are part of a longer process.

road bumps

This alternative uses a metaphorical term to suggest minor obstacles.

challenges encountered

This alternative focuses on the experience of facing difficulties.

FAQs

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

You can use "some setbacks" to acknowledge minor difficulties or delays in a project or process. For example, "Despite "some setbacks", the project was ultimately successful."

What are some alternatives to "some setbacks"?

Alternatives include "minor difficulties", "slight delays", or "occasional hitches" depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "some setbacks"?

Yes, "some setbacks" is grammatically correct. The word "setbacks" is a plural noun, and "some" is a determiner that can be used with plural nouns.

What's the difference between "some setbacks" and "major setbacks"?

"Some setbacks" implies that the difficulties encountered were relatively minor and did not significantly impede progress. "Major setbacks", on the other hand, suggests that the problems were severe and had a substantial negative impact.