Word
setback
Meanings
A problem, failure, or delay that makes it harder to achieve something.
A reduction or reversal in progress, condition, or success (for example in health or business).
Definition
A setback is a problem or delay that makes progress harder.
A setback is an event that slows down or prevents progress toward a goal. It often means a plan does not go as expected and you need more time or effort to continue. Setbacks can happen in projects, careers, health, or relationships, but they are usually temporary.
Examples
- The project faced a major setback when the supplier went bankrupt.
- After the injury, her training suffered a setback.
- This delay is a setback, but we can still meet the deadline.
- Losing that client was a setback for the company.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes use setback as a verb (e.g., “It setback me”); use the verb phrase “set someone back” instead.
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