unanticipated setbacks

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unanticipated setbacks" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe unexpected difficulties or challenges that arise during a process or project. Example: "Despite our careful planning, we faced several unanticipated setbacks that delayed the project's completion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Success, especially in new and growing industries, follows many detours and unanticipated setbacks; strategies may have to be altered radically as events unfold.

Harvard Business Review

"There will be lots of unanticipated setbacks before we end up in the clinic, but this work suggests that we will ultimately get there". Jaenisch said the success with iPS cells does not mean that research on human embryonic stem cells can be dropped, as some opponents of the work have asserted.

The Washington Post

Last summer, Rayyan Gorashi '19 had a bucket list-worthy few months, hiking the French Alps, cheering on the Belgium national team in the FIFA World Cup, and problem-solving unanticipated setbacks as a research intern at imec.

Johns Hopkins University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Success often comes at the price of temporary setbacks and unanticipated frustrations.

BMC Medical Informatics and Decision Making

The approval setbacks were worsened last month by the unanticipated release of generic versions of Wyeth's Protonix acid-relief medicine.

The New York Times

This was not unanticipated.

The Economist

This led to unanticipated loans.

The New York Times

The announcement was not unanticipated.

The New York Times

These are not unanticipated disagreements.

The Washington Post

Well, no, not wholly unanticipated.

The Guardian - Books

Then unanticipated events took over".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In academic writing, use "unanticipated setbacks" to analyze how unexpected events influenced research outcomes or historical developments. This shows critical thinking and a nuanced understanding of complex situations.

Common error

While "unanticipated setbacks" is a useful phrase, avoid using it repeatedly within a short span of text. Vary your language by using synonyms such as "unexpected hurdles" or "unforeseen difficulties" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unanticipated setbacks" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or the subject of a clause. It describes unforeseen problems or obstacles that impede progress. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Academia

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "unanticipated setbacks" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that refers to unexpected difficulties or challenges. Ludwig AI highlights that it is suitable across various contexts, including news, academia, and general communication. While not overly common, it's a valuable expression for acknowledging unforeseen problems in projects or plans. When writing, consider using synonyms to avoid repetition and tailor the formality to your audience. Remember that encountering "unanticipated setbacks" is a common experience, and effectively communicating about them is key to navigating challenges.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unexpected hurdles

Emphasizes the surprising nature of the obstacles encountered.

unforeseen difficulties

Highlights the lack of prior knowledge or preparation for the challenges.

unpredicted obstacles

Focuses on the inability to foresee the impediments.

surprise complications

Underlines the element of surprise and the complex nature of the issues.

sudden adversities

Highlights the abrupt and negative nature of the events.

unlooked-for challenges

Emphasizes the unexpected appearance of the difficulties.

uncalculated risks

Focuses on the element of risk that wasn't properly assessed or considered.

contingencies

Highlights the need to prepare for unforeseen issues.

chance encounters

Highlights on situations and/or encounters that occurs in your path unexpectedly.

surprise

Highlights the sudden changes.

FAQs

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

You can use "unanticipated setbacks" to describe unexpected difficulties that arise during a project or process. For example: "Despite careful planning, we faced several "unanticipated setbacks" that delayed the project's completion."

What can I say instead of "unanticipated setbacks"?

You can use alternatives like "unexpected hurdles", "unforeseen difficulties", or "surprise complications depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "unanticipated setbacks"?

While "setbacks" inherently imply an obstacle or delay, using "unanticipated" emphasizes the unexpected nature of the problem. The combination is not strictly redundant and can add clarity, particularly when contrasting with expected challenges.

What's the difference between ""unanticipated setbacks"" and "challenges"?

"Unanticipated setbacks" specifically refer to unexpected obstacles that hinder progress, while "challenges" is a broader term that can include both expected and unexpected difficulties. Setbacks typically carry a more negative connotation due to their hindering nature.