setback
4 synonyms for setback, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A problem or delay that slows down or reverses progress.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
black eye
How to use setback
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
minor setback
suffer a setback
a setback for
Etymology
Formed from the phrase "set back," describing something that pushes progress backward.
Full origin of setback →Frequently asked questions
What does “setback” mean?
The word “setback” means a problem or delay that slows down or reverses progress. In plain terms, something that gets in the way of progress or causes a delay.
How do you pronounce “setback”?
“Setback” is pronounced SEHT-bak (/ˈsɛtbæk/ in IPA).
How do you use “setback” in a sentence?
Here is “setback” used in a sentence: “Losing the contract was a major setback for the company.”
What part of speech is “setback”?
“Setback” is a noun.
Is “setback” a common word?
“Setback” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
