such a setback

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "such a setback" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant obstacle or difficulty that hinders progress or success in a situation. Example: "Losing the funding was such a setback for the project, and it will take time to recover."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

Now this is such a setback".

The New York Times

Few are prepared for such a setback.

The New York Times

Neither country's national prestige will allow such a setback.

The Economist

But Brown has assured United fans such a setback will not lead to a transfer request.

Independent

So in the case of such a setback what normally suffers is the investment spending.

The Guardian

Now, such a setback is much more likely to bring economic ruin.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

The size of any building cleaned by scaffold is measured in drops, a single vertical section of the façade running from the roof to the lowest point the basket can descend — either to the ground or to an architectural feature of the building such as a setback.

The New Yorker

Ladylike dressing "was such a mental setback," Mr. Lang said.

The New York Times - Style

That he is still around and running in major races so long after such a serious setback is difficult to believe.

The Guardian - Sport

The terrorists' aim is to confront the United States with such a costly setback that it will withdraw its forces, a move that would diminish American influence in the Persian Gulf and other distant regions.

The New York Times

"It didn't take her any time at all until she was back; she was planning maybe even to drive but more important to her was to give other people the courage that you can still do so much even if you've had such a major setback".

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "such a setback" when you want to express that an event has significantly hindered progress or caused a notable negative impact. It implies more than just a minor inconvenience.

Common error

Avoid using "such a setback" for trivial issues. Reserve it for situations where the negative impact is genuinely substantial. Using it for minor problems weakens its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "such a setback" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence. It signifies a notable negative event that impedes progress or causes a reversal. Ludwig's examples show it commonly describes significant obstacles in various fields.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

16%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Such a setback" is a phrase used to describe a significant obstacle or reversal that hinders progress. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts. While not exceedingly common, it finds frequent use in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business settings. To ensure appropriate usage, avoid using it for trivial issues and reserve it for situations where the negative impact is genuinely substantial. Alternatives include "such a drawback" or "such a hindrance". The phrase carries a neutral tone suitable for both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

such a hitch

Replaces "setback" with "hitch", implying a minor and temporary problem.

such a reversal of fortune

Adds emphasis on the unexpected and significant change in circumstances.

such an impediment

Replaces "setback" with "impediment", focusing on the hindering aspect of the event.

such a stumbling block

Replaces "setback" with "stumbling block", highlighting the obstacle-like nature of the event.

so unfortunate a development

Uses a more formal tone, emphasizing the negative nature of the development.

so damaging a blow

Highlights the detrimental impact of the event.

such a disadvantage

Replaces "setback" with "disadvantage", focusing on the unfavorable position created by the event.

such a complication

Replaces "setback" with "complication", emphasizing the added complexity.

such an upset

Emphasizes the unexpected and disruptive nature of the event.

this kind of difficulty

A more generic expression of facing problems.

FAQs

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

You can use "such a setback" to describe a significant obstacle or reversal in progress. For example, "The project experienced "such a setback" when the main investor withdrew funding".

What are some alternatives to "such a setback"?

Alternatives include phrases like "such a drawback", "such a hindrance", or "such a complication", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "such a setback"?

Use "such a setback" when you want to emphasize the negative impact of an event on progress or success. It's appropriate when the event represents a significant obstacle or reversal.

Is "such a setback" formal or informal?

"Such a setback" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, be mindful of the audience and the overall tone of your writing.