Synonyms of setback

setback 1 of 2

noun

ˈset-ˌbak 

as in reversal

a change in status for the worse usually temporarily

The explorers persevered despite suffering setbacks that would have discouraged lesser souls.

Synonyms & Similar Words

• reversal
• reverse
• lapse
• reversion
• decline
• disappointment
• knock
• downfall
• frustration
• regression
• collapse
• turnaround
• breakdown
• letdown
• recession
• fall
• relapse
• comedown
• crash
• down
• retrogression
• turnabout
• ruin
• descent
• meltdown
• undoing

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• status quo

set back

2 of 2

verb

as in to hold back

Related Words

• hold back
• hold up
• delay
• slow
• detain
• retard
• stretch (out)
• keep
• hinder
• cut off
• stem
• put off
• put over
• impede
• lay over
• dam
• block
• hesitate
• snag
• hold over
• balk
• hold off (on)
• pause
• obstruct
• clog
• blockade
• prolong
• baffle
• turn back
• lengthen
• hold
• extend
• defer
• bottleneck
• remit
• end
• rein (in)
• suspend
• conclude
• terminate
• protract
• shelve
• discontinue
• choke off
• suppress
• repress
• call
• stunt
• squelch
• squash
• stanch

Dissimilar Words

• keep (on)
• carry on
• continue
• run on
• keep up
• persist
• proceed
• move
• go along
• advance
• progress
• march
• follow through (with)
• fare
• push
• drive
• stir
• spur
• propel
• wend
• budge
• actuate
• impel
• goad

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of setback

Noun

These kids become more emotionally intelligent, which helps them weather setbacks, embrace independence and try new things. — Juli Fraga, CNBC, 6 Sep. 2026

Amid the delays and setbacks, simply opening the museum may feel like a victory to its founders. — Jacqui Palumbo, CNN Money, 5 Sep. 2026

Verb

Key West is forecast to reach a high of 92 degrees and the old record of 95 degrees was set back in 1951. — Lissette Gonzalez, CBS News, 17 Aug. 2026

There are more steps than most buyers anticipate, and the wrong move at the wrong time can set back your closing or cost you the loan. — Sharon Wu, USA Today, 13 Aug. 2026