unexpected setbacks

USAGE SUMMARY

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

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

REBOUNDS Team officials have set Monday as the target for Baron Davis to start practicing with the team, barring any unexpected setbacks.

The New York Times - Sports

Also schedule regular meetings with managers and colleagues to update them on progress and alert them in case of any unexpected setbacks.

The Guardian

Citing a list of unexpected setbacks to the Canadian economy, the Bank of Canada lowered its key interest rate today for the first time in almost two years.

The New York Times

Though Reed had pruned its admissions list for financial reasons before, it always found a way to help the few students with unexpected setbacks.

The New York Times

The United States Olympic Committee has set 100 medals as its goal, a target presumably put low enough to allow for unexpected setbacks.

The New York Times

The student also has a responsibility to be seeking advice and communicating regularly with their adviser, both about progress and unexpected setbacks, both of which are inevitable in research.

Stanford University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

The disclosure is an unexpected setback for the company.

The New York Times

"The improvement in volume trends should be viewed favorably following the unexpected setback last quarter," Jain said.

The New York Times

The unexpected setback infuriated Erdoğan and led him to escalate the confrontation with the PKK.

The Guardian

That unexpected setback gave the forces that opposed the bill more time to pressure undecided senators.

The New York Times

His abrupt withdrawal is an unexpected setback for Mr Obama, who has enjoyed remarkably smooth transition to power.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing projects or plans, acknowledge the possibility of "unexpected setbacks" to manage expectations and demonstrate realistic planning.

Common error

While "unexpected setbacks" is widely applicable, consider more formal synonyms like "unforeseen impediments" or "unanticipated complications" in highly formal writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unexpected setbacks" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes unforeseen obstacles that impede progress, as illustrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

12%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "unexpected setbacks" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe unforeseen obstacles or problems. Ludwig AI validates this usage, confirming its correctness. Predominantly found in News & Media, Academic and Science contexts, the phrase serves to explain disruptions or delays. For more formal contexts, consider alternatives like "unforeseen impediments". Acknowledging and planning for "unexpected setbacks" is a best practice for managing expectations. Steer clear of overuse in extremely formal situations. Top sources like The New York Times and The Guardian frequently employ this expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unexpected difficulties

Is a more generic alternative, focusing on the problematic and unforeseen nature of the events.

unforeseen difficulties

Emphasizes the element of surprise and the problematic nature of the occurrences.

unanticipated obstacles

Highlights the obstructive nature of the events and their lack of prediction.

unpredicted problems

Highlights the lack of foresight in anticipating the issues.

surprise complications

Focuses on the intricate and unforeseen nature of the difficulties.

unforeseen impediments

Focuses on the hindering and unanticipated nature of the events.

unexpected hitches

Suggests the surprising and disruptive nature of the disruptions.

surprise reversals

Emphasizes the change in fortune that was not anticipated.

sudden hitches

Suggests minor and abrupt disruptions.

unanticipated glitches

Highlights the small and unforeseen malfunctions.

FAQs

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

You can use "unexpected setbacks" to describe unforeseen problems or delays. For example, "Despite careful planning, the project faced "unexpected setbacks" due to weather conditions."

What are some alternatives to saying "unexpected setbacks"?

Alternatives include "unforeseen difficulties", "unanticipated obstacles", or "sudden hitches" depending on the specific context.

What is the difference between "unexpected setbacks" and "challenges"?

"Unexpected setbacks" specifically refers to unforeseen problems that hinder progress, whereas "challenges" is a broader term that can include both expected and unexpected difficulties.

Is it appropriate to use "unexpected setbacks" in formal writing?

Yes, "unexpected setbacks" is generally appropriate. However, in highly formal contexts, consider using alternatives such as "unforeseen impediments" or "unanticipated complications".