How Do You Spell SET BACK?

Pronunciation: [sˈɛt bˈak] (IPA)

The word "set back" is often spelled as two separate words, but it can also be spelled as one word, "setback." The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ˈsɛt.bæk/. The stress is on the first syllable, which is pronounced as "set." The consonant cluster "-tb-" in the second syllable can be challenging to pronounce for non-native English speakers. However, with practice, it can be mastered, and the word "setback" can be confidently added to one's vocabulary.

SET BACK Meaning and Definition

1. According to the dictionary, "set back" is a phrasal verb that has multiple meanings and can be used in different contexts. Firstly, "set back" can mean to delay the progress or development of something, thus causing a setback or hindrance. This could be in terms of time, energy, or resources. For example, an unexpected problem or obstacle can set back a construction project or disrupt a timeline.

   Secondly, "set back" can also refer to a financial loss or cost. It implies an expenditure or payment that hampers one's financial situation. For instance, a major repair for a vehicle or a sudden medical expense can significantly set one's finances back.

   Furthermore, "set back" can be used metaphorically to indicate an emotional or psychological setback. In this sense, it means experiencing a disappointment that impacts one's mental state or confidence levels. For instance, receiving negative feedback after putting in a lot of effort can set someone back emotionally.

   Lastly, "set back" can be used to describe a distance or position. It means to be placed further or at a distance from a given point of reference or starting point. For example, if a building is set back from the main road, it means it is positioned further away from it.

   In summary, "set back" has various meanings including to delay progress, incur financial loss, experience disappointment, or refer to a distance. The exact interpretation depends on the context in which it is used.

Etymology of SET BACK

The word "setback" is a compound noun that combines the verb "set" with the noun "back". Here is the etymology of each component:

1. Set: The verb "set" has Old English origins and can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word *satjaną, meaning "to place" or "to put". It has cognates in other Germanic languages, such as German "setzen" and Dutch "zetten", all derived from the same root.

2. Back: The noun "back" also has Old English roots and can be derived from the Proto-Germanic word *baką, meaning "back" or "behind". This term evolved from the Proto-Indo-European root *bhogo, which conveys the idea of "behind" or "near".

Idioms with the word SET BACK

• set back from The idiom "set back from" refers to placing something or someone at a certain distance or location away from a particular reference point or point of interest. It suggests that the subject is not directly in front or immediately beside the point of focus, but rather positioned further away or slightly apart.
• set back on one's heels The idiom "set back on one's heels" means to surprise or astonish someone, often causing them to become uncertain or off-balance. It refers to a situation where something unexpected happens that catches a person off guard, causing them to be momentarily taken aback.
• set back the clock The idiom "set back the clock" means to revert or return to an earlier, less advanced, or less progressive state. It often refers to reversing progress or undoing changes that have been made. It can also imply going back to a previous time or point in history.
• set back A setback is an obstacle or difficulty that delays or hinders progress towards a goal or objective.

Similar spelling words for SET BACK

• sit back,
• set-back,
• setback.

Plural form of SET BACK is SET BACKS