Word
drawback
Phoneticsdraw·back, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈdɹɔˌbæk/
UK/dɹˈɔːbæk/
Countable noun
Definition
n. a disadvantage or a negative part of a situation that is otherwise good.
n. a disadvantageous feature or negative aspect of an otherwise attractive or functional proposal.
Examples
“The only drawback of this apartment is the high rent.”
“While the new software is much faster, its main drawback is the lack of compatibility with older files.”
“Economists argue that the primary drawback of the proposed policy is its potential to stifle innovation in the long term, despite providing immediate relief to consumers.”
Examples
simple
“The only drawback of this apartment is the high rent.”
contextual
“While the new software is much faster, its main drawback is the lack of compatibility with older files.”
complex
“Economists argue that the primary drawback of the proposed policy is its potential to stifle innovation in the long term, despite providing immediate relief to consumers.”
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “drawback” in context.
Verb
01. have drawback
“While the new software is faster, it does have one major drawback: it crashes frequently.”
verb + noun
Usage
Often paired with the preposition 'of' or 'to'.
Real-World Examples
“Existing antivenoms save lives, but they also have major drawbacks.” “The method produces extremely durable parts, but it has drawbacks.” Etymology
From draw + back. Compare setback.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/drawback