Synonyms for

Downside

Verb / ˈdaʊˌnsaɪd / Another word for downside — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a negative aspect or drawback of something

Synonyms & similar words

drawback disadvantage negative con minus problem weakness flaw shortcoming defect pitfall catch snag hitch obstacle hindrance impediment disbenefit inconvenience difficulty

Synonyms by register

Formal

disadvantage drawback shortcoming weakness

Informal

catch snag bummer flaw

Literary

shadow blemish infirmity

Antonyms

upside advantage benefit plus strength pro merit

Common collocations

  • the downside of
  • a major downside
  • significant downside
  • no downside
  • the downside risk
  • downside protection
  • downside potential

Word family

noun downside
adjective downside

Usage note

Often used to refer to the negative aspects or disadvantages of something. It is generally considered neutral in register.

Example sentences

  1. The downside of the rain is that we can't play outside.
  2. The downside of staying up late is feeling tired the next day.
  3. The downside of having a pet is cleaning up after them.
  4. The downside of a long vacation is the cost of travel.
  5. The downside of having a big birthday party is cleaning up afterward.

Quotes

  • The downside of the Internet is that it has made lying easier.
  • The downside of love is that it cannot be explained.
  • The downside of my celebrity is that I cannot go anywhere in the world without being recognized.

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