Drawback: Definition, Usage & Common Mistakes

Meaning 1：disadvantage (drawback)

drawback 🔊

/ˈdrɔːbæk/

A disadvantage or negative part of something that makes it less good.

Drawback illustrated: person frustrated by smartphone low battery warning on screen

disadvantage 🔊

➕

/dɪsədˈvæn.tɪdʒ/

A negative aspect, flaw, or unfavorable condition that reduces the overall value or effectiveness of something.

📁 Category：Technological Inventions 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From the phrasal verb 'draw back', meaning to pull back. A drawback is something that pulls you back or hinders progress.

💡 Mnemonic

Think of a DRAWBACK as a disadvantage that makes you want to DRAW BACK from a situation.

📖 Example

The drawback of this phone is that its battery runs out very quickly. 🔊 The primary disadvantage of this smartphone is its rapid battery depletion.

🔗 Collocations

major drawback – A significant or primary disadvantage.

main drawback – The most important or central disadvantage.

obvious drawback – A disadvantage that is easily seen or understood.

🔄 Synonyms

disadvantage (n.) – An unfavorable circumstance or condition that reduces the chances of success.

downside (n.) – The negative aspect of something, especially contrasted with a positive aspect.

weakness (n.) – A fault or lack of strength in something, making it less effective.

🚫 Antonyms

advantage (n.) – A condition or circumstance that puts one in a favorable position.

benefit (n.) – A positive or helpful effect.

strength (n.) – A good or beneficial quality or attribute of something.

📖 Cultural Story

The term originates from the simple compound of 'draw' and 'back'. It's commonly used in business, policy discussions, and product reviews to critically assess trade-offs, highlighting the pragmatic English approach to evaluating pros and cons.