setback
pronunciation
How to pronounce setback in British English:
UK [ˈsetbæk]
How to pronounce setback in American English:
US [ˈsetbæk]
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- Noun:
- an unfortunate happening that hinders of impedes; something that is thwarting or frustrating
Word Origin
- setback (n.)
- also set-back, 1670s, "reversal, check to progress," from set (v.) + back (adv.). Sometimes backset was used in the same sense. Meaning "space between a building and a property line" is from 1916. To set (someone) back "cost" is from 1900.
Example
- 1. Bagehot watched mr cameron handle the grim setback with assurance .
- 2. How serious is this setback ?
- 3. Mr akesson calls it a big setback .
- 4. How much of a setback to growth do these twin crises represent ?
- 5. Observers are unsure how to interpret the setback announced by leaders at the apec summit .