suffer setbacks

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "suffer setbacks" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing challenges or difficulties that someone or something experiences, particularly in the context of progress or achievement. Example: "Despite their hard work, the team had to suffer setbacks during the project, which delayed their timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

A4 NATIONAL A14-24 EvacueeSaidid to Suffer Setbacks in Health Families displaced by Hurricane Katrina are suffering from much higher than average rates of mental disorders and chronic conditions like asthma and from a lack of prescription medication and health insurance, according to a new study.

The New York Times

There are many reasons why societies advancing fitfully towards democracy can suffer setbacks.

The Economist

But autocracies suffer setbacks too, and usually for one overwhelming reason.

The Economist

His characters work menial jobs, dream big dreams, suffer setbacks and find inspiration in the Lord.

The Guardian - Music

These markets are more likely to suffer setbacks but the growth and demographic story is so compelling.

Independent

Democratic officials said they believed that Mr. Bush's political stature would be hurt if Republicans suffer setbacks despite his efforts.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

Some will make the transition easily while others will suffer setback after setback.

The New York Times

Both have suffered setbacks.

The New York Times - Health

They suffered setbacks and disappointments.

The New York Times

But Turkey has suffered setbacks elsewhere.

The New York Times

He later suffered setbacks in training.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "suffer setbacks", consider the degree of impact. This phrase is suitable for describing significant but not necessarily catastrophic impediments. For minor issues, consider words like "glitches" or "hiccups".

Common error

Avoid using "suffer setbacks" in overly casual conversation. While grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal or dramatic in everyday situations. Opt for simpler alternatives like "had some trouble" or "faced a few challenges" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "suffer setbacks" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the experience of negative impediments or regressions. Ludwig's examples show the phrase used in various contexts to describe hindrances in progress, health, and political standing.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

14%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Science

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "suffer setbacks" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe encountering difficulties or regressions in progress. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is suitable for various contexts, primarily appearing in news and media, encyclopedias, and wiki sources. While "suffer setbacks" conveys a neutral to slightly formal tone, more casual alternatives like "experience reversals" or "face difficulties" may be more appropriate for informal conversations. Be mindful of the context to ensure the phrase aligns with the desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Experience reversals

Focuses on the idea of a change in direction, implying a movement backward from a previously positive position.

Encounter obstacles

Emphasizes the challenges faced, focusing on impediments that hinder forward movement.

Face difficulties

Highlights the presence of problems or hardships that need to be addressed.

Meet with adversity

Implies a confrontation with unfavorable or challenging circumstances.

Undergo regressions

Specifically suggests a return to a previous, less developed state or condition.

Fall behind

Indicates a failure to maintain pace or progress compared to others or to a set schedule.

Take a hit

Suggests experiencing a negative impact or damage, often in a figurative sense.

Stumble

Implies a temporary loss of balance or progress, suggesting a minor setback.

Be thwarted

Highlights the frustration of having one's plans or efforts blocked or prevented.

Hit a snag

Indicates an unexpected problem or difficulty that temporarily halts progress.

FAQs

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

You can use "suffer setbacks" to describe situations where progress is hindered. For example, "The project suffered setbacks due to unforeseen circumstances."

What can I say instead of "suffer setbacks"?

You can use alternatives like "experience reversals", "encounter obstacles", or "face difficulties" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "suffer a setback" or "suffer setbacks"?

Both are correct. "Suffer a setback" refers to a singular instance, while "suffer setbacks" indicates multiple instances or a general trend of regression.

What's the difference between "suffer setbacks" and "face challenges"?

"Face challenges" implies confronting difficulties head-on, while "suffer setbacks" suggests that those difficulties have already negatively impacted progress or outcomes.