disadvantage
- 01 B1 Intermediate
n.a quality or feature that makes something less useful or attractive.
n.an undesirable characteristic or drawback that reduces the effectiveness or appeal of something.
Simple“The main disadvantage of living in the city center is the constant noise.”
In context“One significant disadvantage of the proposed software update is its lack of compatibility with older hardware systems.”
- 02 B1 Intermediate
n.a situation that makes it harder for you to succeed than for other people.
n.a state or condition that puts someone in an inferior or less favourable position compared to others.
Simple“He was at a disadvantage during the interview because he didn't have much experience.”
In context“Children from low-income families often start their education at a distinct disadvantage compared to their wealthier peers.”
- 03 C1 Advanced
v.to put someone in a position where they have less chance of success than others.
v.to place someone or something in an unfavourable or inferior position. Transitive — always takes a direct object.
Simple“The new tax laws might disadvantage small business owners.”
In context“The committee was concerned that the new criteria would unfairly disadvantage applicants from non-traditional backgrounds.”
Usage disadvantage include · have disadvantage
From Middle English disavauntage, from Old French desavantage.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.