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What is another word for Setback? – 136 Setback Synonyms

    Need another word for Setback? Use these synonyms of Setback from our thesaurus to say it differently.


    Synonyms & Similar Words

    obstacle hindrance impediment barrier blockage snag hitch delay interruption disruption reversal defeat failure misfortune calamity disaster check impedimenta encumbrance handicap drawback disadvantage nuisance disturbance interruption pause stoppage halt recess lapse relapse recession deterioration decline slump downslide fallback backslide retrogression regression reversion

    Meaning of Setback

    A setback is a situation or event that hinders or delays progress, plans, or a desired outcome.

    Definitions

    • A setback is a reverse or check in a progress, plan, or a desired outcome
    • It can also refer to a physical or emotional challenge that must be overcome
    • In a broader sense, a setback can be a change from a better to a worse state or condition

    Etymology of Setback

    The word "setback" originated in the mid-17th century from the verb "set back," which means to push or move something backward
    Initially, it was used to describe a physical movement or a change in position
    Over time, the term evolved to encompass figurative meanings, including a reverse or check in progress, a disappointment, or an unwanted change

    Example Uses

    • The company experienced a major setback when their funding was cut off
    • The injury was a significant setback for the athlete, forcing her to withdraw from the competition
    • The economic downturn was a setback for the country, leading to widespread unemployment and poverty

    Antonyms & Near Antonyms

    progress advancement improvement enhancement boost increase gain success achievement triumph victory breakthrough leap bound stride headway momentum upswing upturn resurgence revival recovery bounce rebound

    Related Nouns

    obstacle barrier hindrance impediment challenge problem difficulty complication snag hitch delay interruption disruption reversal defeat failure misfortune calamity disaster check impedimenta encumbrance handicap drawback disadvantage

    Related Verbs

    hinder impede obstruct block delay interrupt disrupt reverse defeat fail misfire backfire decline deteriorate slump slide fall lapse relapse recess halt stop pause

    Related Adjectives

    difficult challenging complicated problematic troublesome pesky annoying frustrating disappointing unfortunate unlucky calamitous disastrous adverse unfavorable unfavorable unfavorable unpropitious inopportune untimely regrettable deplorable lamentable