on the downside

USAGE SUMMARY

"on the downside" is a grammatically correct phrase that is used in written English.
You can use it when you are discussing something that has both positive and negative aspects. For example, "Moving to the city has its advantages; on the downside, the cost of living is very high."

✓ 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

It destroys you on the downside.

The New York Times

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

Unfortunately, on the downside there's more downside".

The New York Times

I am always testing on the downside.

The New York Times

But risks remain on the downside.

The Guardian - Business

On the downside: no comedy clubs.

The Guardian

But the risks are all on the downside.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on the downside" after presenting a positive aspect to provide a balanced view. This helps to create a comprehensive and objective analysis.

Common error

Avoid using "on the downside" without a clear preceding positive aspect or context. It should function as a counterpoint, not a standalone negative statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the downside" functions as a prepositional phrase that serves as a transitional expression. It introduces a contrasting or negative aspect following a positive one. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on the downside" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed prepositional phrase used to introduce negative aspects or drawbacks, as verified by Ludwig AI. It functions as a transitional expression that provides balance to an argument by presenting counterpoints. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science, the phrase maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse communication styles. When using this phrase, ensure that a positive aspect has been presented previously for context. Alternatives like "on the negative side" and "the disadvantage is" can be used for variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the downside is that

More explicit, adding "is that" to clarify the negative aspect.

a negative aspect is

Replaces "downside" with "negative aspect" for similar emphasis.

on the negative side

Replaces "downside" with "negative side" maintaining the same meaning.

on the minus side

Uses "minus side" instead of "downside", emphasizing the drawback.

the disadvantage is

Replaces the prepositional phrase with a direct statement of disadvantage.

a drawback is

Similar to "the disadvantage is", directly stating a drawback.

conversely

Indicates an opposite point or negative aspect in relation to something previously mentioned.

however

A general-purpose contrasting word, less specific than "on the downside".

a problem is

Identifies a specific issue or negative consequence.

detrimentally

Expresses a negative consequence or harmful effect.

FAQs

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

Use "on the downside" to introduce a negative aspect or disadvantage following a statement of positive qualities. For example, "The phone has great features; "on the downside", the battery life is short."

What are some alternatives to "on the downside"?

Alternatives include "on the negative side", "the disadvantage is", or simply "however" depending on the context.

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", particularly when it follows a previous statement outlining positive aspects.

What's the difference between "on the downside" and "in contrast"?

"In contrast" introduces a general opposition, while "on the downside" specifically highlights a negative aspect or disadvantage. "On the downside" is more focused on drawbacks.