setback

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The March jobs report due Friday morning will help resolve an anxious question hanging over the economy: Was February’s big drop in jobs a temporary setback, or the start of a more serious downturn?

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

The conclusion in Israel was always that, while they could do Iran some serious damage, it would only be a setback for the regime.

From BBC • Mar. 28, 2026

The research body lifted its inflation forecast for the U.S. to 4.2% from 3%, and said the global economy would suffer a large setback if energy prices stay high for a lengthy period.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 27, 2026

Namibia said Monday it had rejected a request for billionaire Elon Musk's Starlink to operate its satellite internet services in the country, dealing the company a second setback in southern Africa.

From Barron's • Mar. 23, 2026

A setback, they said, pulling the sweets from their pockets.

From "Typical American" by Gish Jen