On the downside

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "On the downside" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to introduce a negative aspect or disadvantage of a situation or argument. Example: "The new policy has many benefits; however, on the downside, it may lead to increased workload for employees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

On the downside, we still don't have one.

TechCrunch

On the downside, it's duller.

The New Yorker

On the downside, the bank goes bust.

The New York Times

On the downside, no theme was established.

The Guardian

On the downside, I'm moving towards death.

The Guardian

On the downside: no comedy clubs.

The Guardian

On the downside, it weighs a chubby 3,710 pounds.

The New York Times

On the downside, opal carries heavy spiritual baggage.

The New York Times - Arts

On the downside, such malleability often comes with more upkeep.

The New York Times - Tech

"On the downside you get a lot of red tape.

The Guardian

"On the downside," he frowns, "it fucked my brain".

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When listing multiple downsides, consider using bullet points or numbered lists after introducing the overall negative with "on the downside" for better clarity.

Common error

Avoid beginning a paragraph solely with "On the downside" without prior context. This phrase works best when contrasting with previously mentioned positive aspects, providing a balanced view rather than introducing a standalone negative point.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "On the downside" functions as a discourse marker or transitional phrase, introducing a contrasting or negative aspect to a previously stated positive point. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correctly used to present a disadvantage or drawback.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "On the downside" is a common and grammatically sound way to introduce a negative aspect or drawback. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage in various contexts. It is most frequently found in News & Media and Science. While suitable for various registers, its primary function is to provide a balanced view by contrasting positive points with limitations or disadvantages. For alternative expressions, consider "the disadvantage is" or "however", keeping context and desired formality in mind.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

The downside is that

A more direct and explicit way of stating the negative aspect.

The disadvantage is

More direct and formal, explicitly labeling a drawback.

A potential drawback

Highlights a possible negative consequence, slightly less direct.

A negative aspect is

Highlights a negative element, less idiomatic.

On the other hand

Introduces an opposing point, but without necessarily framing it as a disadvantage.

The pitfall is

Highlights a hidden danger or trap.

Unfortunately

Emphasizes the regrettable nature of the following point.

Conversely

Highlights a direct opposition, lacking the explicit negativity of the original phrase.

Regrettably

Similar to "unfortunately", but more formal.

However

A simple contrast, lacking the nuance of a negative consequence.

FAQs

How can I use "on the downside" in a sentence?

Use "on the downside" to introduce a negative aspect or disadvantage of a situation, usually after mentioning positive aspects. For example: "The phone has a great camera; "on the downside", the battery life is quite short."

What is a more formal alternative to "on the downside"?

For a more formal tone, you can use phrases like "the disadvantage is", "a potential drawback", or "a negative aspect is" instead of "on the downside".

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "on the downside"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to start a sentence with "on the downside", but it's best used when contrasting with a previously mentioned positive point for a smoother flow.

What's the difference between "on the downside" and "however"?

"However" introduces a contrast, while "on the downside" specifically introduces a negative aspect or drawback. "On the downside" carries a stronger connotation of negativity than simply saying "however".