How to say "setback" in Japanese

Choosing the right word

挫折ざせつCommon
noun, suru verb, intransitive verbCovers a setback in which plans, ambitions, or business efforts are thwarted, stressing frustration and discouragement. Think of a business venture or cherished plan that collapses, leaving the person disheartened.
資金しきん不足ふそくのためわれわれの計画けいかくは挫折ざせつした。↗
Our plan failed because of the shortage of funds.
敗北はいぼくCommon
noun, suru verb, intransitive verbAs 'setback' it means a reverse in the form of outright defeat or loss to an opponent, as in a battle, contest, or election; not the word for a general hitch or delay.
彼かれは、自分じぶんのお気に入きにいりのコーラス・ガールが、ほかの男おとこと結婚けっこんした時とき、敗北はいぼくを認みとめた。↗
He threw in the towel in defeat when his favorite chorus girl married another man.

Choose 挫折 for a setback that frustrates or discourages plans and ambitions, and 敗北 when the setback is a defeat or loss to an opponent, as in a contest, battle, or election.

Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only

Japanese equivalents

挫折ざせつsetback
敗北はいぼくdefeat
頓挫とんざsetback
セットバックsetback (land use)
蹉跌さてつfailure
つまずきfailure

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