set back meaning

UK /sɛt bæk/ US /sɛt bæk/ 2 syllables

set back (verb): hold back to a later time.

set back has 3 meanings in this dictionary.

set back as a verb

  1. hold back to a later time
    • let's postpone the exam

    Synonyms: postpone, prorogue, hold over, put over, table, shelve, defer, remit, put off

    Type of: delay

    Kinds: call, hold, suspend, probate, reprieve

  2. slow down the progress of; hinder
    • His late start set him back

    Type of: impede

    Related forms: setback

  3. cost a certain amount
    • My daughter's wedding set me back $20,000

    Synonyms: knock back, put back

    Type of: cost

How to pronounce set back

set back is pronounced /sɛt bæk/ in British English and /sɛt bæk/ in American English. It has 2 syllables.

More about set back on Wikipedia.