sustained a major setback

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sustained a major setback" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant obstacle or difficulty that has been encountered, often in a context of progress or development. Example: "The project was going well until it sustained a major setback due to unforeseen circumstances."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Good prospect who sustained a major knee injury last October.

The New York Times - Sports

Spain sustained a potentially major setback when the experienced central defender Carles Puyol was forced off because of an injured foot midway through the second half.

The New York Times

The powerful military commander, Gen Ali Mohsen al-Ahmar, also seems to have suffered a major setback.

BBC

Youth unemployment is a major setback to sustainable growth.

Journal of Global Entrepreneurship Research

The boycott lasted a year and was a major setback for polio eradication.

Globalization and Health

The group had a major setback when the versatile Sean Locklear, a ninth-year veteran, sustained a season-ending knee injury in early December.

The New York Times - Sports

Wolff's hopes of starting a race suffered a major setback in January when Adrian Sutil was signed up by Williams after Valtteri Bottas sustained an injury in qualifying for the Australian Grand Prix.

Independent

"This was a major setback.

The New York Times - Sports

Or a major setback for feminism?

Independent

That's a major setback.

The Washington Post

The fall brought a major setback.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "sustained a major setback", clearly identify the area or entity that experienced the setback to provide context and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "sustained a major setback" for minor inconveniences or temporary delays. Reserve this phrase for situations where the setback genuinely has a substantial and lasting impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sustained a major setback" functions as a descriptive phrase, indicating that a subject has undergone a significant negative event that has hindered progress or caused a reversal of fortune. As Ludwig AI tells us, the phrase follows standard grammar rules.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

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Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "sustained a major setback" is a grammatically sound and understandable way to describe a significant obstacle or negative development. While Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, the lack of examples suggests that the frequency of its usage is rare. The phrase is versatile and appropriate for various contexts, although its impact is best when the subject experiencing the setback is clearly identified. Consider alternative phrases, such as "experienced a significant reversal", to add nuance or vary your language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

experienced a significant reversal

Focuses on the reversal aspect, highlighting a change in direction or fortune rather than just an obstacle.

suffered a considerable impediment

Emphasizes the hindering aspect of the setback, suggesting an obstacle that slows progress.

encountered a substantial hurdle

Highlights the challenge or difficulty presented by the setback, portraying it as something to overcome.

faced a serious obstacle

Presents the setback as a barrier that needs to be addressed.

met with a critical snag

Suggests a sudden and unexpected problem that causes a delay or complication.

underwent a severe blow

Focuses on the negative impact of the setback, highlighting the damage or harm caused.

took a heavy hit

Uses a more informal tone to describe the damaging impact of the setback.

was dealt a significant blow

Similar to "underwent a severe blow" but emphasizes the external force causing the setback.

had a major disruption

Focuses on the interruption or disturbance caused by the setback.

ran into a considerable problem

Presents the setback as a problem that requires resolution.

FAQs

How can I use "sustained a major setback" in a sentence?

You can use "sustained a major setback" to describe when something or someone has experienced a significant hindrance or reversal. For example, "The company "sustained a major setback" due to the economic downturn".

What are some alternatives to "sustained a major setback"?

Alternatives include phrases like "experienced a significant reversal", "suffered a considerable impediment", or "encountered a substantial hurdle". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "sustained a major setback" in formal writing?

Yes, "sustained a major setback" is appropriate for formal writing. It is a clear and professional way to describe a significant obstacle or negative development. However, consider alternatives like "experienced a significant reversal" for added nuance.

What is the difference between "setback" and "reversal"?

While both terms indicate a negative change, "setback" implies a temporary delay or obstacle, whereas "reversal" suggests a more complete change of direction or fortune. Therefore, "sustained a major setback" focuses on the hindrance, while "experienced a significant reversal" focuses on the change in direction.