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disadvantage

disadvantage

108 2.9
A condition that makes it harder to succeed or compete
  • noun
  • /ˌdɪsədˈvænɪdʒ/
translation icon : desventaja
  • Being forced to relocate can be a disadvantage for some employees who prefer to stay close to family and friends.
  • advantages and disadvantages
  • economic disadvantage
  • socioeconomic disadvantage

But they have the disadvantage that they have no talents.

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Examples

Synonyms

downside
vsdisadvantage
131 3.6

A bad part of something that is usually good

is a general unfavorable condition that reduces chances or effectiveness
detriment
vsdisadvantage
39 6.3

Harm that makes someone or something worse

focuses on a bad condition that lowers success chances rather than direct harm
unfavorable position
vsdisadvantage
  • US
4.2

A situation where someone has less chance to win or succeed

is a broader state of reduced chances in any situation

Antonyms

2.8

Something that helps a person do better than others

Compounds

7.6

A problem when a company enters a market before others, like high costs or being copied

How Disadvantageous

burden
482 3.4
handicap
17 4.1
disadvantage
108 2.9
neutrality
22 4.4
advantage
2.8

Surface Forms

disadvantage singular
disadvantages plural

Morphology

disadvantage = advantage (transparent) = dis + advantage

The meaning is a straightforward negative counterpart of 'advantage' and is readily inferable for learners who know the base word.

Etymology

The word disadvantage comes from the parts dis- 'not' and advantage 'a helpful or stronger position'. So a disadvantage is a 'not-advantage', an unfair or weaker position that reduces your chances of success.