Setback: meaning, definitions and examples

Usually refers to a temporary problem that delays progress.

• The project faced a setback due to the unexpected weather conditions

Refers to something that makes it more difficult to progress or achieve something.

• The lack of funding was a major hindrance to the research project

A thing that blocks one's way or prevents progress.

• They had to overcome many obstacles to complete the marathon

General term for something that is hard to do or deal with.

• He faced difficulty in solving the complex mathematical problem

Implies a demanding task or situation that requires effort and skill to overcome.

• Learning a new language can be a fun and exciting challenge

Describes a serious and ongoing difficulty or misfortune.

• She showed great resilience in the face of adversity during her illness

A situation where there is a temporary problem or delay in progress.

• The project faced a setback when the lead developer fell ill
• Despite the setback, the team managed to meet the deadline

Any barrier or difficulty that makes progress difficult, often seen as more significant than a hurdle.

• Heavy traffic was a major obstacle to getting to the meeting on time
• Lack of funding was an obstacle to their research

A physical barrier that must be jumped over; metaphorically, any minor obstacle or difficulty that is part of a process.

• She cleared every hurdle in the race with ease
• Completing the paperwork was a small hurdle in starting the new business

A situation that requires great effort, skill, or determination to overcome.

• Learning a new language can be a challenge
• She accepted the challenge of climbing the highest mountain

A situation where someone fails to achieve a desired outcome, often used when one loses in a competitive context. This word has a negative connotation.

• The team faced a crushing defeat in the final match
• After the defeat, they reflected on their mistakes to improve

Use when referring to an unexpected problem that delays progress or makes a situation worse.

• We faced a major setback when our funding was cut
• The project experienced several setbacks due to regulatory issues

Use for describing an obstruction that slows progress but does not completely stop it.

• Lack of funding may hinder the project's development
• Noise from the construction site hindered her ability to concentrate

Used when highlighting a postponement or extension of time.

• The flight was delayed due to bad weather
• They decided to delay the meeting until next week

Used to describe a barrier or obstacle that makes movement, progress, or action difficult.

• The large boulders impeded our path up the mountain
• Poor communication can impede organizational efficiency

Applied when something is making it difficult to achieve a task or progress.

• Heavy traffic hampered our journey
• His injury hampered his ability to perform well on the field

Use when something or someone actively blocks or prevents progress or movement.

• The fallen tree obstructed the road
• Protesters tried to obstruct the entrance to the building