a drawback is that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a drawback is that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a negative aspect or disadvantage of a particular situation, idea, or proposal. Example: "While the new software offers many benefits, a drawback is that it requires a steep learning curve for new users."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

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

The Economist

A drawback is that little information about the actual compounds are encoded they may be ordered according to a physicochemical property, but this is limits further possible insight into the dataset.

Journal of Cheminformatics

Currently available JE vaccines are relatively safe and effective, but a drawback is that multiple doses are required (1, 9 ).

Emerging Infectious Diseases

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

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

However, a major drawback is that questions have only fixed alternatives, that is 'Yes' and 'No' in this case.

Globalization and Health

A drawback was that oxygen production from the peroxide gave positive buoyancy again to the settled flocs.

Water Research

A potential drawback is that a Cornish gale may cause cliff-side paths to be closed to the public.

The New York Times

Although the most frequently occurring morbidities are emphasized, a potential drawback is that a child with DS might have rare DS-specific problems, but children with DS can also have the same problems as their healthy peers.

European Journal of Pediatrics

A small drawback is that it takes a very sharp fingernail to set the time and the alarm.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a drawback is that", ensure the sentence clearly explains the disadvantage or limitation being introduced. Provide specific details to support the statement.

Common error

While "a drawback is that" is useful, overuse can make writing monotonous. Vary your language by using synonyms like "a limitation is that", "the downside is that", or restructuring sentences to avoid the phrase altogether.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a drawback is that" functions as a sentence introducer. It signals the presentation of a disadvantage or limitation associated with a previously mentioned subject. As confirmed by Ludwig, this expression is grammatically correct and widely employed.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

50%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a drawback is that" is a grammatically sound phrase used to introduce a limitation or disadvantage. Ludwig confirms its correctness and common usage across various contexts. Predominantly found in news and scientific articles, it maintains a neutral register. When writing, ensure the disadvantage is clearly explained and avoid overuse for a more engaging and varied style. Consider alternatives like "a limitation is that" or "the downside is that" to enhance writing fluency.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a disadvantage is that

Replaces "drawback" with "disadvantage", a direct synonym, maintaining the same structure and meaning.

a limitation is that

Substitutes "drawback" with "limitation", emphasizing a restriction or constraint.

the downside is that

Uses "downside" instead of "drawback", offering a slightly more informal tone.

the problem is that

Replaces "drawback" with "problem", focusing on an issue or difficulty.

a negative aspect is that

Offers a more descriptive alternative, explicitly stating that the following point is negative.

one weakness is that

Focuses specifically on a "weakness", implying a flaw or vulnerability.

a major concern is that

Highlights a significant worry or issue, increasing the emphasis on the negative aspect.

the chief issue is that

Emphasizes that the following point is the most important problem or concern.

on the downside

A more succinct way to introduce a negative point, though it requires restructuring the sentence.

conversely

Indicates an opposing or contrasting point, often implying a disadvantage after a previous advantage was discussed. It needs a rephrasing of the main structure.

FAQs

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

Use "a drawback is that" to introduce a disadvantage or limitation of something you are discussing. For example, "The car is fuel-efficient; however, "a drawback is that" its trunk space is limited."

What are some alternatives to "a drawback is that"?

You can use alternatives like "a disadvantage is that", "a limitation is that", or "the downside is that" depending on the context. These options provide similar meaning while varying your word choice.

Is it grammatically correct to say "a drawback is that"?

Yes, "a drawback is that" is grammatically correct. It follows a standard sentence structure and is widely used in both formal and informal writing.

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

While both introduce negative aspects, ""a drawback is that"" typically refers to a specific disadvantage or limitation, whereas "a problem is that" usually indicates a more general issue or difficulty.