Synonyms of setbacks

setbacks

noun

plural of setback

as in reversals

a change in status for the worse usually temporarily

the colonists persevered despite suffering setbacks that would have discouraged lesser souls

Synonyms & Similar Words

• reversals
• reverses
• disappointments
• lapses
• reversions
• declines
• knocks
• frustrations
• downs
• falls
• breakdowns
• regressions
• downfalls
• letdowns
• recessions
• turnarounds
• relapses
• collapses
• ruins
• crashes
• turnabouts
• retrogressions
• comedowns
• descents
• meltdowns
• undoings

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• status quos

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of setbacks

Employers notice people who have challenged themselves, overcome setbacks, and demonstrated the discipline to keep learning and improving over time. — Alex Dileonardo, Fortune, 18 Aug. 2026

Iran has demonstrated its ability to effectively control the Strait of Hormuz and to strike American allies in the region, and setbacks to allies such as Hezbollah are unlikely to permanently end Tehran’s ability to project power through proxies. — Marc Lynch, Foreign Affairs, 18 Aug. 2026

Maintain momentum by reframing delays as opportunities to take daily action towards your objective, rather than setbacks. — Bykaren R. McDaniel, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026

However, the monthly charts require follow-through into month-end to avoid longer-term momentum setbacks. — Katie Stockton, CNBC, 17 Aug. 2026

Trump turns to containing the fallout from his setbacks in Iran. — Kevinisha Walker, Los Angeles Times, 17 Aug. 2026

Strides and setbacks in justice Guatemala was once seen as a regional model for tackling corruption through its International Commission against Impunity in Guatemala, or CICIG, which countries such as El Salvador and Honduras tried to emulate. — Yuliana Ramazzini, Christian Science Monitor, 17 Aug. 2026

Garcia had a few setbacks with his injury, including receiving a cortisone shot for some discomfort. — Pj Green, Kansas City Star, 17 Aug. 2026

Outline measures to reduce impacts on neighboring property owners and communities, including noise mitigation, light controls, setbacks, traffic improvements, emergency response coordination and other community protection measures. — Mateo Rosiles, USA Today, 11 Aug. 2026