Words / B2

dis-uh-d-VAHNT-ij/ˌdɪsədˈvɑːntɪdʒ/

A disadvantage makes a situation harder or less fair: at a disadvantage; social disadvantage. Advantage is the opposite (already in the dictionary). Drawback and downside are close for a mixed plan. Disadvantaged as an adjective describes people or areas with fewer resources. Do not write “disadvantage to do” — use at a disadvantage / a disadvantage of -ing.

Meaning

Something that makes a situation more difficult or less fair.

Examples

• “A late start is a disadvantage in a timed writing paper.”
• “A late start puts candidates at a disadvantage in a timed paper.”
• “The essay discussed educational disadvantage, not only individual effort.”

Good to know

at a disadvantage; a disadvantage of. Opposite: advantage. Adjective: disadvantaged. Close: drawback. Pattern: not “disadvantage to do”.

Near in meaning

drawback

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