1. To delay, hinder, or obstruct the achievement of a primary goal or objective
The lack of funding will set back the main purpose of the research project.
A falta de financiamento prejudicará o objetivo principal do projeto de pesquisa.
2. To cause a reversal of progress toward an intended aim
These complications set back the main purpose of our strategic plan.
Essas complicações atrasaram o objetivo principal do nosso plano estratégico.