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

The setback comes as John Ternus prepares to take over next month as Apple’s chief executive, succeeding longtime CEO Tim Cook. — Sebastian Herrera, Fortune, 10 Aug. 2026

The July jobs numbers from the Labor Department Friday marked a sharp setback for the American labor market and for Trump less than three months before his Republican party seeks to keep full control of Congress in the midterm election. — Josh Boak, Chicago Tribune, 7 Aug. 2026

Verb

One elegant multi-story villa set back behind metal gates appears intact but the back of the building has been heavily damaged. — Jane Arraf, NPR, 1 Aug. 2026

Since their last loss on July 1 the Red Sox turned their season around by winning 15 straight games, matching the all-time franchise record set back in 1946. — Mac Cerullo, Boston Herald, 23 July 2026