set back the schedule

Meaning

This expression means to delay the progress of a planned timeline, project, or event. It is commonly used in project management to explain why a deadline will be missed or why a milestone has been delayed. The tone is professional and objective.

Examples

• The unexpected server crash set back our launch schedule by at least two weeks.

  The unexpected server crash set back our launch schedule by at least two weeks.

• We cannot afford any more errors, as they will set back the schedule even further.

  We cannot afford any more errors, as they will set back the schedule even further.

• Waiting for client approval on the design has set back our development schedule.

  Waiting for client approval on the design has set back our development schedule.

• A shortage of raw materials threatened to set back the production schedule.

  A shortage of raw materials threatened to set back the production schedule.

• Although the strike set back the schedule, the team managed to catch up quickly.

  Although the strike set back the schedule, the team managed to catch up quickly.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ This issue will delay back the schedule.

  ✓ This issue will set back the schedule.

  The verb 'delay' does not take the particle 'back'. Use 'delay the schedule' or the phrasal verb 'set back the schedule'.

• ✗ The bug made a setback to the schedule.

  ✓ The bug set back the schedule.

  'Setback' as a single word is a noun. When using the action as a verb, write it as two words: 'set back'.

Related Expressions

Practice

• The supply chain issues are going to ___ by a month.

  💡 delay our planned timeline

  Show answer

  set back the schedule

• We need to work overtime so we don't ___ any further.

  💡 cause more delays to the timeline

  Show answer

  set back the schedule