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

The book emphasizes strategic thinking, adaptability, team unity, and the importance of learning from setbacks. — Forbes Books Press Release Official, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026

Trump’s renovation of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool has also been met with a series of setbacks. — Tiago Ventura, Time, 7 July 2026

But the setbacks during his recovery center on his left shoulder, which was troubling news. — Blair Kerkhoff, Kansas City Star, 6 July 2026

Nearly three years — which included one Tommy John surgery and multiple setbacks — separated his first MLB start from his second. — Spencer Nusbaum, New York Times, 5 July 2026

Despite those setbacks, Fisher continued pursuing the recognition with help from longtime friend Jeff Thoke, who spent years researching Fisher's military service and compiling hundreds of pages of historical records for military officials. — Jasmine Baehr, FOXNews.com, 5 July 2026

Publicly, the White House is shrugging off the legal setbacks. — Toluse Olorunnipa, The Atlantic, 4 July 2026

The fair has already seen a series of setbacks that include cancellations from artists on the lineup, sparse crowds, electricity issues and even melted ice cream. — Mike Stunson, USA Today, 30 June 2026

Even for the Kremlin, which often plays down painful setbacks, the stark reality has become hard to sidestep. — Matthew Chance, CNN Money, 29 June 2026