Pronunciation: /sɛtbæk/

Definitions of setback

noun a reversal or check in progress; a change from better to worse

Example Sentences

A1 I had a setback when I missed the bus to work.

A2 Her setback in learning English was quickly overcome with practice.

B1 The project experienced a setback when funding was cut.

B2 Despite the setback, the team was able to complete the task on time.

C1 The setback in negotiations caused a delay in the merger process.

C2 The setback was a minor hiccup in the overall success of the business venture.

verb to slow the progress of; hinder

Example Sentences

A1 The heavy rain setback our plans for a picnic.

A2 The unexpected power outage setback the progress of the project.

B1 The economic downturn setback the company's expansion plans.

B2 The injury setback his training schedule for the upcoming marathon.

C1 The political unrest setback the country's efforts towards stability.

C2 The legal dispute setback the completion of the construction project.

Examples of setback in a Sentence

formal The project faced a major setback when the main supplier backed out at the last minute.

informal I had a setback with my car when the tire blew out on the highway.

slang I experienced a setback when I failed my driving test for the third time.

figurative After the setback of losing her job, she decided to start her own business.

Grammatical Forms of setback

plural

setbacks

comparative

more of a setback

superlative

most of a setback

present tense

setback

future tense

will setback

perfect tense

has setback

continuous tense

is setbacking

singular

setback

positive degree

setback

infinitive

to setback

gerund

setbacking

participle

setbacked

Origin and Evolution of setback

First Known Use: 1670 year
Language of Origin: English
Story behind the word: The word 'setback' originated from the combination of 'set' and 'back' to describe a reversal or hindrance in progress.
Evolution of the word: Originally used in the 17th century to refer to a physical step backwards, the word 'setback' has evolved to also signify a delay or obstacle in achieving a goal or completing a task.