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Showing results for setback. Search instead for setace.
Definitions

setback

[set-bak] / ˈsɛtˌbæk /
NOUN
disappointment
Synonyms
STRONGEST
blow defeat delay difficulty hindrance impediment misfortune obstacle reversal set-back slowdown stumbling block trouble
STRONG
about-face bath check comedown flip-flop hitch rebuff regress regression reverse upset
WEAK
backset drawing board holdup reversal of fortune whole new ballgame
Antonyms
STRONGEST
advance advantage aid assistance blessing expedition furtherance help
WEAK
achievement boon boost success

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.

For the ballroom to suffer a setback in federal court, then, is for the whole world to be in sudden danger.

From Slate • Apr. 4, 2026

Decision is a setback for the president’s $400 million project, which was challenged by preservationists.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 31, 2026

The panel also called for wider consultation, warning the changes could be a setback to efforts to protect transgender rights.

From BBC • Mar. 26, 2026

But in an unexpected setback, the group's agency said Friday member RM injured his ankle and would have limited onstage participation.

From Barron's • Mar. 21, 2026

On March 1, 1926, White and the prosecution received a devastating setback.

From "Killers of the Flower Moon" by David Grann

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.