possible downsides

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "possible downsides" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing potential negative aspects or disadvantages of a situation, decision, or proposal. Example: "Before we proceed with the new marketing strategy, let's consider the possible downsides that could arise."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

There are some possible downsides.

The New York Times

What are the possible downsides?

Harvard Business Review

But there are possible downsides to the saturation marketing.

The New York Times

Several experts have warned of the possible downsides.

Harvard Business Review

It sounds like a good idea – but there are possible downsides.

Harvard University

What other possible downsides might there be to storing CO2 ice in Antarctica?

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

One possible downside exists.

Independent

However, irradiation does have a possible downside.

The New York Times - Health

Still, like some Swedes, he sees a possible downside.

The New York Times

There are concerns about the possible downside of her move.

The New York Times - Sports

April 2016 forecasts [are] probably not changing materially, but possible downside risk to 2017.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When evaluating a new strategy, always list the "possible downsides" explicitly. This proactive approach helps in risk mitigation and informed decision-making.

Common error

Don't just list the "possible downsides"; quantify them where possible. Attaching probabilities or potential impact scores to each downside provides a clearer picture of the overall risk profile.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "possible downsides" functions as a noun phrase that identifies potential negative aspects or disadvantages. It commonly serves to introduce the consideration of negative consequences associated with a particular action, decision, or situation. Ludwig confirms its validity and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "possible downsides" is a commonly used and grammatically correct way to refer to potential negative aspects or disadvantages, as validated by Ludwig. It is frequently used in news, academic, and scientific contexts to encourage a balanced evaluation of opportunities, decisions, or technologies. While the phrase itself is neutral, effectively using it requires quantifying the downsides and developing mitigation strategies. Alternatives like "potential drawbacks" and "conceivable risks" can be used for variety. By considering "possible downsides", decision-makers can make more informed and robust choices.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

potential drawbacks

Replaces "downsides" with "drawbacks", focusing on features that might cause someone to retract or move away from something.

potential disadvantages

Substitutes "downsides" with "disadvantages", emphasizing the unfavorable conditions or reduced chances of success.

conceivable risks

Replaces "possible" with "conceivable" and "downsides" with "risks", highlighting potential negative outcomes or hazards that are imaginable.

imaginable pitfalls

Uses "imaginable" instead of "possible" and "pitfalls" in place of "downsides", suggesting hidden or not-so-obvious dangers.

likely complications

Replaces "possible" with "likely" and "downsides" with "complications", emphasizing probable difficulties that could arise.

anticipated challenges

Substitutes "possible" with "anticipated" and "downsides" with "challenges", focusing on expected difficulties that need to be overcome.

foreseeable problems

Replaces "possible" with "foreseeable" and "downsides" with "problems", highlighting potential issues that can be predicted.

attendant hazards

Uses "attendant" to indicate that the hazards naturally accompany something, instead of referring to generic "downsides".

negative consequences

Focuses on the results or effects that are negative, swapping "downsides" with "consequences" and removing the "possible" qualifier.

unfavorable aspects

Highlights the less desirable elements or characteristics, replacing "downsides" with "aspects" and using "unfavorable" to express negativity.

FAQs

How can I use "possible downsides" in a sentence?

You can use "possible downsides" to discuss potential disadvantages or negative aspects of a plan, decision, or product. For example, "Before investing, it's crucial to consider the "potential drawbacks"."

What are some alternatives to "possible downsides"?

Alternatives include "potential drawbacks", "potential disadvantages", and "conceivable risks". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "possible downsides" or "potential downsides"?

Both "possible downsides" and "potential downsides" are grammatically correct and widely used. The choice often comes down to personal preference, as they carry nearly identical meanings.

How do I analyze the "possible downsides" of a business decision?

Start by identifying all potential negative outcomes. Then, assess the likelihood and severity of each outcome. Finally, develop mitigation strategies to minimize the impact of these "possible downsides".