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The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

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beset

IPA:

How to pronounce beset (audio)

Dictionary definition of beset

To be constantly plagued or troubled by difficulties, problems, or obstacles.
"The project was beset by delays due to unforeseen complications."

Detailed meaning of beset

It is often used to describe a situation where a person or group is facing multiple challenges or setbacks at once, making it difficult to overcome or move forward. For example, a company might be beset by financial difficulties, a shrinking market, and fierce competition, all at the same time. A person might be beset by a range of personal problems, such as health issues, financial struggles, and relationship challenges. In both cases, the term "beset" conveys a sense of being overwhelmed or besieged by challenges, with little respite or relief. Overall, the verb "beset" suggests a situation where difficulties or obstacles are persistent and hard to overcome, requiring significant effort and resilience to navigate.

Example sentences containing beset

1. The company was beset by financial problems, leading to layoffs and restructuring.
2. The city was beset by a wave of crime, leading to increased police presence.
3. The traveler was beset by problems from the moment she arrived at the airport.
4. The ship was beset by a fierce storm, causing damage to the hull.
5. The team was beset by injuries, causing them to lose several key players.
6. The village was beset by famine, leading to a food shortage.

History and etymology of beset

The verb 'beset' has its origins in Old English, specifically the word 'besettan.' The prefix 'be-' in Old English often denoted surrounding or enclosing, while 'settan' meant 'to set' or 'to place.' Therefore, 'beset' etymologically signifies the act of 'being surrounded' or 'placed around' by difficulties, problems, or obstacles. Over time, it evolved to describe the state of being constantly plagued or troubled by such challenges. The etymology of 'beset' aptly conveys the sense of someone or something being hemmed in by persistent difficulties, as if encircled by them, highlighting the enduring nature of the problems or obstacles in question.

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Further usage examples of beset

1. The hiker was beset by a swarm of mosquitoes, causing her to seek shelter.
2. The community was beset by a water shortage, leading to rationing.
3. The family was beset by tragedy, losing several members in a car accident.
4. The company was beset by a public relations crisis, damaging its reputation.
5. The politician was beset by scandal, causing her to lose support among voters.
6. He was beset by financial troubles for years, struggling to make ends meet.
7. The project was beset with unexpected challenges, causing delays and frustration.
8. Her life seemed to be beset by misfortune, with one setback after another.
9. The country is beset by political turmoil, leading to protests and unrest.
10. The team was beset by injuries this season, impacting their performance.
11. The city was beset with traffic congestion, making daily commutes a nightmare.
12. They were beset by doubts about their decision, second-guessing themselves.
13. The region is beset by natural disasters, from hurricanes to earthquakes.
14. The company was beset by declining sales, forcing layoffs and cost-cutting measures.
15. The town is beset by a rising crime rate, making residents anxious.
16. The family was beset by health issues, leading to frequent hospital visits.
17. The company is beset with internal conflicts, hindering productivity.
18. The company's reputation was beset by scandals, damaging its image.
19. She felt beset by stress and anxiety, struggling to find peace.
20. The expedition was beset by bad weather, making progress slow and dangerous.
21. Their relationship was beset by constant arguments, straining their bond.
22. The organization is beset by financial difficulties, threatening its survival.
23. The community is beset by poverty and unemployment, leading to social issues.
24. The company was beset with production delays, affecting delivery schedules.
25. The project is beset by delays and setbacks, making completion uncertain.

Prefix be-, SAT 9 (Scholastic Assessment Test), Problems and Conundrums, Problematic and Annoying

afflict,badger,bedevil,besiege,bother,harass,haunt,perplex,pester,torment

entangle

trouble, free, unburden, relieve

eb68db_9c809d7c503f4a5ca6a42df5098d436f.mp3

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