a big downside

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a big downside" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a significant disadvantage or negative aspect of a situation, decision, or product. Example: "While the new software has many advantages, a big downside is its high cost."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

This requirement, however, has a big downside.

The New York Times

A big downside can be hygiene.

The New York Times

If they're wrong, there's a potential for a big downside".

The New York Times - Health

If you've got a big downside and a small upside, you run away.

The New Yorker

There was a big upside, and there was a big downside.

The New York Times

For passengers, however, such a deal could hold a big downside.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

All of a sudden, Volkswagen has become a bigger downside risk for the German economy than the Greek debt crisis".

The Guardian - Business

Evidence from Australia suggests that people there are more likely to vote for a candidate the longer he has lived in a seat.But the trend has a bigger downside for Britain than it does for other countries.

The Economist

Such irregular, grueling hours are, he says, often a bigger downside than the gruesomeness.

Vice

Such irregular, gruelling hours are, he says, often a bigger downside than the gruesomeness.

Vice

It is hard to see any big downside to this.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a big downside", ensure the context clearly establishes what the advantages or benefits are, so the negative aspect is easily understood in comparison. For example: 'While the new phone has incredible battery life, "a big downside" is its fragile screen.'

Common error

Avoid using "a big downside" for minor inconveniences. Reserve it for genuinely significant drawbacks that could seriously impact a decision or outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a big downside" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object of a sentence. It identifies a significant negative aspect or disadvantage associated with something. As Ludwig AI says, it is grammatically correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a big downside" is a grammatically sound and commonly used noun phrase that serves to highlight a significant disadvantage or negative aspect. Ludwig AI confirms that it is correct and appropriate for diverse contexts. It appears most frequently in News & Media sources, maintaining a neutral register suitable for both general and professional communication. When using this phrase, ensure the significance of the downside is proportional to the context and consider alternatives like "a major drawback" or "a significant disadvantage" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a major disadvantage

Focuses more on the negative aspect as a disadvantage rather than a consequence.

a significant drawback

Highlights the aspect of hindering progress or being a limitation.

a serious limitation

Emphasizes the restrictive nature of the downside.

a notable impediment

Implies a more formal and substantial obstacle.

a considerable pitfall

Suggests a hidden danger or trap associated with the downside.

a substantial snag

Focuses on the unexpected or problematic nature of the downside.

a large stumbling block

Highlights how the downside stops progress.

a major complication

Suggests the downside adds complexity or difficulty.

a key vulnerability

Focuses on the potential for harm or failure due to the downside.

a critical weakness

Emphasizes a fundamental flaw or deficiency.

FAQs

What does "a big downside" mean?

The phrase "a big downside" refers to a significant disadvantage or negative aspect of something.

How can I use "a big downside" in a sentence?

You can use "a big downside" to point out a major negative consequence or drawback. For example: "The car is fuel-efficient, but "a big downside" is its small size."

What can I say instead of "a big downside"?

You can use alternatives like "a major drawback", "a significant disadvantage", or "a serious limitation" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "big downside" or "major downside"?

Both "big downside" and "major downside" are acceptable. The choice often depends on personal preference, though "major" might sound slightly more formal.