on the down side

USAGE SUMMARY

"on the down side" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is typically used to introduce a negative aspect or consequence of a situation. Example: On the down side, the new job offer comes with a longer commute and lower pay.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Goods facilities consisted a loop on the down side, and two sidings on the up side.

Wikipedia

On the down side, one word: why?

Forbes

Four sidings were on the down side of the line, but on the Goudhurst side of the station.

Wikipedia

The five sidings were located on the down side of the station.

Wikipedia

On the down side I have herpes.

Independent

We finished last year on the down side.

The New York Times - Sports

On the down side, Lacey thought too many of the wines lacked sufficient structure.

The New York Times

On the down side, shares of Facebook dropped 2.7 percent, to $30.10.

The New York Times

On the down side, England's fielding travails are their past, present and future.

The Guardian - Sport

On the down side, Beaton says: "Anthony likes to think he wrote it himself".

The Guardian

On the down side, pomegranates grow 12 to 20 feet tall and almost as wide.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on the down side" to introduce specific negative aspects, not general complaints. Be clear about what you're identifying as the disadvantage.

Common error

Avoid using "on the down side" when there is no previously mentioned or implied positive aspect. This phrase introduces a contrast, so ensure there's something to contrast it with, or your statement may sound incomplete or illogical.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the down side" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces a contrasting, typically negative, aspect or disadvantage following a statement or situation that is positive or neutral. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is frequently employed to signal a shift to the less favorable perspective.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

2%

Social Media

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on the down side" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to introduce a negative aspect or disadvantage following a positive or neutral statement. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. It is most frequently found in News & Media, Wiki and Science contexts, maintaining a neutral register suitable for various audiences. When using this phrase, remember to ensure a clear contrast with a preceding positive aspect for the most effective communication. While alternatives like "conversely" or "the disadvantage is" exist, "on the down side" offers a balanced and idiomatic way to present potential drawbacks.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the downside

A more succinct version of the original phrase with identical meaning.

the disadvantage is

More direct in specifying a drawback, unlike the more nuanced introduction provided by "on the down side".

a negative aspect

Directly identifies a bad feature, lacking the idiomatic quality of "on the down side".

a potential drawback

Highlights a possible negative consequence, slightly more formal than "on the down side".

on the other hand

Offers a contrasting perspective, but lacks the inherent negativity implied by "on the down side".

the problem is

Identifies a specific issue, which may be too strong depending on the situation where "on the down side" is more appropriate.

conversely

This term presents a direct contrast or opposite viewpoint, but it doesn't specifically focus on negative aspects like "on the down side" does.

however

A simple transition word that signals a contrast. It is less descriptive than "on the down side" regarding negative outcomes.

looking at it negatively

This phrase implies a perspective shift to emphasize the unfavorable side. This is a more explanatory construction.

from a pessimistic viewpoint

Indicates a negative outlook, is more formal and less commonly used in casual conversation than "on the down side".

FAQs

How can I use "on the down side" in a sentence?

Use "on the down side" to introduce a disadvantage or negative aspect after establishing a positive one. For example, "The new phone has a great camera; "on the down side", the battery life is poor".

What's a synonym for "on the down side"?

Alternatives to "on the down side" include "conversely", "on the other hand", or "the disadvantage is", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to use "on the down side" in formal writing?

While "on the down side" is acceptable, more formal alternatives like "a potential drawback" or "however" might be preferred in highly formal contexts.

What is the difference between "on the down side" and "the downside"?

The phrases "on the down side" and "the downside" are essentially interchangeable; "the downside" is a more concise version.