SETTING BACK Synonyms: 76 Similar and Opposite Words

setting back

verb

present participle of set back

as in holding back

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Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for setting back

Verb

Soaring prices stemming from the conflict have forced African countries to keep interest rates elevated, holding back growth and adding to already high borrowing costs.

— Alexander Onukwue, semafor.com, 17 Aug. 2026
Marsh was a fearless critic, rarely holding back even with his most caustic and controversial views.

— Andy Greene, Rolling Stone, 15 Aug. 2026

Definition of holding back

Verb

The plan was announced during a rally outside the 185-unit Oglesby Towers on Wednesday morning, with some holding up copies of their rent bills.

— Megan De Mar, CBS News, 19 Aug. 2026
Although the data don’t show how household income compares to the cost of living, SmartAsset spokesperson Toby Nelson said the numbers can show how people’s income is holding up against rising costs.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 12 Aug. 2026

Definition of holding up

Verb

And normally, refineries take advantage of softer demand in the fall by slowing down for repairs.

— Matt Egan, CNN Money, 19 Aug. 2026
Demining groups say that without international support, Southeast Asia’s unfinished work clearing land mines and unexploded bombs will continue to endanger communities, maiming and killing people and slowing development for years to come.

— ABC News, ABC News, 18 Aug. 2026

Definition of slowing

Verb

There are more than 300 such foundations across the country, holding over $40 billion in assets, according to Grantmakers In Health (paywall).

— Laura MacDonald, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026
Landa worked with the Association to get the original project approved in 2017 after holding over 30 public meetings.

— Karen Billing, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 June 2026

Definition of holding over

Verb

Collins lifted his shirt, and investigators removed a handgun from his waistband before detaining him.

— Caroline Zimmerman, Kansas City Star, 14 Aug. 2026
That’s when four cars suddenly stopped at the spot, and six masked and armed federal agents emerged and converged, detaining the men without immediately identifying themselves, according to the initial lawsuit.

— Staff And Wire Reports, Daily News, 13 Aug. 2026

Definition of detaining

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setting at

setting back

setting by

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Style

“Setting back.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/setting%20back. Accessed 24 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of setting back

verb

Example Sentences

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