an unfortunate happening that hinders or impedes; something that is thwarting or frustrating
Used in a Sentence
setback
How to use setback in a sentence. Example sentences and definitions for setback.
Editorial note
We're busy changing the world here, and that would be a pointless setback.
Examples6
Definitions1
Parts of speech1
Quick take
an unfortunate happening that hinders or impedes; something that is thwarting or frustrating
Meaning at a glance
The clearest senses and uses of setback gathered in one view.
Definitions
Core meanings and parts of speech for setback.
noun
an unfortunate happening that hinders or impedes; something that is thwarting or frustrating
Example sentences
We're busy changing the world here, and that would be a pointless setback.
That would be an enormous setback for civil liberties.
Many of the buildings have a large setback from roads where they have trees and grass and planters between the buildings and roads.
A company will cut off its own nose to spite its face, and it will relish doing so. Sure, it may mean a huge setback for them, it may cost them millions even, but often they don't care.
Until this country has a social contract that's worth a damn, people are going to be very adverse to even the slightest setback.
It can represent a setback to my ability to continue to develop skill levels in areas that are important for my future.
Frequently asked questions
Short answers drawn from the clearest meanings and examples for this word.
How do you use setback in a sentence?
We're busy changing the world here, and that would be a pointless setback.
What does setback mean?
an unfortunate happening that hinders or impedes; something that is thwarting or frustrating
What part of speech is setback?
setback is commonly used as noun.