Grammar fix
set back
delay progress
to cause something to happen later than planned or expected, usually by creating a problem or obstacle.
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
The heavy snow set back the construction by two weeks.
If there are unexpected problems, like equipment breaking down, it can set back the whole project and make it difficult to finish on time.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: The delay set back the schedule for two weeks.
Say: The delay set the schedule back by two weeks.
Use 'set back BY [a time]'; with the amount it's usually 'set X back by Y'.
Which sounds natural?
Tap the one a native speaker would say.
'Set back' is the natural verb for delaying progress; 'impeded the project's progress' is heavy.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
set back + progress
- the project
- by weeks
- her recovery
- plans