B2nounworkbusiness
US/ˈset.bæk/
UK/ˈset.bæk/
a problem that stops progress or makes a situation worse for a time
In context
Failing the driving test was a setback, but she passed on her second try.
The storm was a major setback for coffee farmers in the Central Highlands.
The project suffered several setbacks, so it finished six months late.
Words that go with setback
verb + noun
- suffer a setbackThe team suffered a setback when their best player was injured.
- overcome setbacksSuccessful people learn to overcome setbacks.
adjective + noun
- major setbackLosing the contract was a major setback for the company.
- temporary setbackThe doctor said the fever was only a temporary setback.
- minor setbackApart from a minor setback, the trip went well.
noun + preposition
- setback forThe new tax is a setback for small shops.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
We met a setback in the project.Correct: We had / suffered a setback in the project.