downside

Everyday

1. A downside is the bad part or disadvantage of something that is mostly good. tree →
2. The downside of a plan is what could go wrong or what it costs you. tree →

In the lessons

Used in debates, persuasive writing and decision-making: listing upsides and downsides (pros and cons). Tells the reader there is a catch. Phrases: the downside is, on the downside, upside and downside.

Examples

• The downside of having a dog is walking it in the rain. tree →
• Living near school is great; the only downside is no bus ride with friends. tree →
• Every plan has a downside. tree →
• One downside of screens at night is poor sleep. tree →
• On the downside, the trip costs a lot. tree →
• List the upsides and downsides before you choose. tree →

Note

Opposite: upside. Informal-neutral; formal word: disadvantage. Do not mix up with «downside up» (a joke) or «upside down». In a decision problem, weigh downsides against upsides.