a drawback is

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a drawback is" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when introducing a negative aspect or disadvantage of a particular situation, idea, or product. Example: "While the new software has many benefits, a drawback is its high cost."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A drawback is that governing majorities must then be created from party coalitions.

The Economist

A drawback is that Gyrus is vulnerable to exchange rate movements as much of its business comes from the US.

The Guardian - Business

A drawback is that the Oxford machine has a 4 percent error rate, too high for many applications, including diagnosis.

The New York Times - Health

A drawback is that the app is so full of features you might forget which menu you're in.

The New York Times - Tech

A drawback is that it is a snapshot from 2013 and recruitment patterns may have changed as Isis became better known in Europe in the following years.

The Guardian

Stockback and Customerowner will be attractive to customers with strong retail loyalties, but a drawback is that customers end up with little diversification in their portfolios.

The New York Times

A drawback is that it lacks the bulk storage capacity of popular American fridges, which makes the $3,800 price tag seem even heftier.

The New York Times - Magazine

For browsers, a drawback is that the vacant storefront gallery is off limits, except to those who wish to lease commercial space.

The New York Times

But a drawback is that residents have to figure out where to put the batteries — a particular quandary for those with homes vulnerable to flooding.

The New York Times

A drawback is that losing phone service also temporarily suspends the app, which happened for a few minutes on Route 120.

The New York Times

A drawback is that the tests to measure H.I.V. levels in the blood are now needed before individuals start the intermittent therapy, and the tests are not widely available in Africa.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a drawback is" to clearly introduce a disadvantage or negative aspect following a statement of benefits or advantages for a balanced perspective.

Common error

Ensure the drawback you're introducing directly relates to the subject at hand. Avoid introducing unrelated or tangential negatives that don't logically follow.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a drawback is" functions as an introductory phrase that signals the presentation of a disadvantage or negative aspect related to a previously mentioned topic. This phrase helps to provide a balanced perspective by acknowledging potential downsides. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a drawback is" serves as a valuable tool for introducing disadvantages or negative aspects in a balanced and objective manner. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usability. The phrase is commonly found in diverse sources, including scientific publications and news media. When using this phrase, clarity and direct relevance to the topic at hand are crucial. By understanding the function, purpose, and register of "a drawback is", writers can effectively communicate a well-rounded perspective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a disadvantage is

Replaces 'drawback' with a more straightforward synonym, maintaining the same structure and meaning.

a limitation is

Substitutes 'drawback' with 'limitation', focusing on the restrictive aspect of the negative point.

the downside is

Uses a more colloquial term, 'downside', to convey the negative aspect.

a negative aspect is

More formal and descriptive, explicitly stating 'negative aspect' instead of using a single word synonym.

the problem is

Emphasizes the issue or difficulty arising from the situation.

a challenge is

Highlights the difficulty or obstacle presented by the situation.

a concern is

Focuses on the worry or apprehension associated with the situation.

a weakness is

Points out a specific area of vulnerability or deficiency.

a flaw is

Indicates an imperfection or defect in the subject being discussed.

the catch is

Uses an informal idiom to suggest a hidden or unexpected disadvantage.

FAQs

How can I use "a drawback is" in a sentence?

Use "a drawback is" to introduce a disadvantage or negative aspect, often following a statement of advantages. For example, "The software is user-friendly; however, "a drawback is" its limited functionality".

What are some alternatives to "a drawback is"?

You can use alternatives like "a disadvantage is", "a limitation is", or "the downside is" depending on the context.

Is it more formal to say "a drawback is" or "the downside is"?

"A drawback is" is generally considered more formal than "the downside is", which is more colloquial. Choose the phrase that best suits the tone of your writing.

What's the difference between "a drawback is" and "a challenge is"?

"A drawback is" refers to a disadvantage or negative aspect. "A challenge is" refers to a difficulty or obstacle. While they can sometimes overlap, "a challenge" implies something that needs to be overcome, whereas "a drawback" is simply a negative feature.