Words / C1

DRORB-ak/ˈdrɔːbæk/

A drawback is a disadvantage that makes something less attractive: the only drawback is the price, a major drawback. Disadvantage is the everyday cover-all; downside is a close informal cousin; snag is a small practical problem. In speech, the catch or the downside is enough. Drawback is measured and fairly neutral. It is not a disaster. Do not use drawback for a fatal flaw you should have called a fatal flaw.

Meaning

A disadvantage or problem that makes something less attractive.

Examples

• “The only drawback is the price.”
• “The only drawback is the 7 a.m. start; the teaching itself is strong.”
• “A serious drawback of the app is that it needs a signal the hall does not have.”

Good to know

A downside / disadvantage. Everyday: the catch / downside. Close: disadvantage. Neutral, not a catastrophe. Contrast: fatal flaw.

Near in meaning

downside

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