substantially set back

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "substantially set back" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that has been significantly moved or positioned further away from a reference point or standard. Example: "The construction of the new building will be substantially set back from the main road to minimize noise pollution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Other Republicans said the Democrats' antiwar efforts had been substantially set back by the administration testimony.

The New York Times

Vulnerable regions, such as South Asia, have seen transport costs rise, but there is little evidence that big ports or popular shipping lines have been substantially set back.

The Economist

If Thomas spends as much time out of the game on Friday, the Knicks' string of nine home victories against Eastern Conference teams will end and their hopes of making the playoffs will be substantially set back.

The New York Times - Sports

At one stage, Autissier had led the 16 yachts that set out from Charleston, S.C., on Sept. 26, but she has been substantially set back by the sail damage and the Tasmanian detour.

The New York Times - Sports

Iran's diffusion efforts have recently been stepped up, thereby lessening the chances that air raids can effectively cripple or substantially set back its nuclear program.

Forbes

Meanwhile, this legal black hole has substantially set back America's ability to lead the world against the threat of terrorism, and undermined our most basic values".

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

'Losing the great talent that we have on the ground will substantially set us back.

Forbes

The progress of the last 20 years, he argues, could be set back substantially if nations must devote resources to recovering from storms and natural disasters instead of investing in health, education and other services that could boost their societies.

The Washington Post

Although the insurgents did not enter the main air base, which is set back substantially from the main road, the firefight disrupted traffic for several hours on the road, the main route to the Pakistan border crossing at Torkham.

The New York Times

[A13.] Crash Complicates Swissair Future Switzerland's already fragile efforts to salvage a viable airline out of the remains of its bankrupt national carrier, Swissair, were set back substantially by the crash over the weekend of a plane operated by its designated successor, Crossair.

The New York Times

Will crash set back space tourism?

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "substantially set back" when you want to emphasize that progress has been significantly delayed or reversed, not just slightly affected. It implies a notable negative impact.

Common error

Avoid using "substantially set back" in casual conversation or informal writing. It's generally more appropriate for formal reports, news articles, or academic papers. Simpler phrases might be better suited for everyday use.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "substantially set back" functions as a modifier, describing the extent to which something has been delayed or reversed. It is used to indicate a significant negative impact on progress. Ludwig examples show its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "substantially set back" is a phrase used to describe a significant delay or reversal in progress. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts, particularly in news and formal business settings. While grammatically sound, it's best reserved for situations where a considerable negative impact needs to be emphasized. Consider using simpler alternatives like "significantly delayed" in more casual settings. The phrase is uncommon, but its meaning is well-established, making it a reliable choice for formal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

substantially delayed

A more direct synonym, focusing on the delay aspect with similar intensity.

significantly delayed

Focuses on the aspect of postponement or delay.

significantly reversed

Mirrors the reversal aspect of the original phrase, emphasizing the degree of change.

considerably hindered

Emphasizes the obstruction or impediment aspect.

materially impeded

Highlights the tangible impact of the setback.

severely hampered

Stresses the degree to which progress has been affected.

largely reversed

Emphasizes the undoing or negation of previous advancements.

greatly undermined

Focuses on the weakening or compromising of a position or effort.

seriously jeopardized

Highlights the risk or danger introduced by the setback.

drastically impaired

Emphasizes the significant reduction in capability or effectiveness.

FAQs

What does "substantially set back" mean?

It means that something has been significantly delayed or its progress has been reversed to a considerable extent.

How can I use "substantially set back" in a sentence?

Example: The project's timeline was "substantially set back" due to unforeseen technical difficulties.

What are some alternatives to "substantially set back"?

You can use alternatives like "significantly delayed", "considerably hindered", or "largely reversed" depending on the specific context.

Is "substantially set back" formal or informal?

It tends to be more formal and is often found in news reports, business documents, and academic writing. It's less common in casual conversation.