various setbacks

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "various setbacks" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe multiple difficulties or obstacles encountered in a situation or process. Example: "Despite facing various setbacks during the project, the team managed to meet the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Campaigning in New Hampshire, he said that his "well-timed tax cuts" had produced a strong economy despite various setbacks.

The New York Times

After various setbacks, Cameron spent the rest of the nineties as the communications director at a media company.

The New Yorker

Despite various setbacks, Mr. Moskowitz and others are convinced that psychoanalysis is developing a broader intellectual and social significance.

The New York Times - Books

The shop has been four years in the making and would have been launched much earlier if not for various setbacks, including Hurricane Sandy.

The Guardian - Music

Stoking that historical factor is the cloud of Obamacare, and the various setbacks, delays and chaos that have come with the implementation of the Affordable Care Act.

The Guardian

Over all, though, executives say the company's various setbacks have given Toyota the license to take risks it might not have taken in the past.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Obama suffered several setbacks.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The company went with it, suffering various further setbacks, including bankruptcy.

The New Yorker

Despite the various legal setbacks, Aletheia still managed $1.8 billion as of June 30, according to securities filings.

The New York Times

Realistically, Mr. Adams will need to receive a variance and meet various specifications — setbacks, off-street parking and so forth — to be able to have a church.

The New York Times

For men such as Steve Borthwick, Hugh Vyvyan, Jacques Burger, Matt Stevens and Wray, the desire to end years of sweat without major reward and to atone for various personal setbacks was, ultimately, strong enough to repel the reigning champions.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "various setbacks" when the exact nature of the problems isn't crucial to the overall message. If detailed specifics are needed, consider listing the setbacks individually.

Common error

Avoid using "various setbacks" as a substitute for clear and specific details when those details are important to your audience. If the nature of the setbacks significantly impacts the outcome, provide more context to maintain transparency and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "various setbacks" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a preposition or a verb. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It is typically used to describe a collection of difficulties encountered during a specific event or project.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

28%

Encyclopedias

13%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Sport

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "various setbacks" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to acknowledge multiple difficulties or obstacles. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's suitable for a variety of contexts, including news reports, scientific articles, and general discussions. While versatile, it's important to ensure that the level of detail provided matches the audience's needs; in some cases, specific details are preferable to vague generalities. Alternatives like "multiple obstacles" or "numerous challenges" can be used to emphasize different aspects of the difficulties encountered.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

multiple obstacles

Replaces "setbacks" with a more general term for hindrances.

numerous challenges

Emphasizes the challenging nature of the difficulties faced.

several impediments

Uses a more formal word for obstacles, suggesting a more significant hindrance.

diverse difficulties

Highlights the variety or range of problems experienced.

a series of problems

Focuses on the sequential nature of the issues.

repeated frustrations

Emphasizes the emotional impact of the obstacles.

various hurdles

Uses a metaphor to describe the difficulties as obstacles to be overcome.

a multitude of issues

Highlights the large number of problems encountered.

different complications

Focuses on the complex or intricate nature of the problems.

assorted adversities

Uses a more formal and literary term for misfortunes or hardships.

FAQs

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

You can use "various setbacks" to generally refer to multiple problems or difficulties encountered in a project, situation, or process. For example, "Despite "various setbacks", the team persevered and completed the project on time."

What are some alternatives to "various setbacks"?

Some alternatives to "various setbacks" include "multiple obstacles", "numerous challenges", or "several impediments". The best choice depends on the specific context and the desired level of formality.

Is it better to list setbacks individually or to group them as "various setbacks"?

Listing setbacks individually provides transparency and detail, which can be important when the specific nature of the problems is relevant. Using "various setbacks" as a general term is suitable when the problems are less critical to the overall message or when you want to avoid dwelling on negative aspects.

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

A "setback" implies a temporary delay or reversal in progress, while an "obstacle" is a more general term for anything that hinders progress. "Various setbacks" specifically refers to instances that caused delays, while alternatives like "multiple obstacles" may refer to issues to be overcome.