what are the downsides

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "what are the downsides" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when inquiring about the negative aspects or disadvantages of a particular situation, decision, or product. Example: "Before we proceed with the project, can you tell me what are the downsides of this approach?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

What are the downsides of blockchain?

Columbia University

What are the downsides to independence?

The Guardian

What are the downsides of ambient contact?

The New Yorker

So what are the downsides of this impending change?

The Guardian

What are the downsides of co-operatively run businesses?

The Guardian

And what are the downsides – do digital nomads risk isolation?

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

What are the downside, and upside, risks to the bearish predictions for U.S. and global equities?

Forbes

So what are the downside risks to the otherwise favorable outlook?

Huffington Post

What is the downside?

Columbia University

What is the "downside"?

Cornell University

So what is the downside?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When evaluating options, always list the "what are the downsides" alongside the benefits to ensure a balanced assessment.

Common error

Don't focus solely on obvious negatives. Dig deeper to uncover less apparent "what are the downsides" that might have long-term consequences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what are the downsides" functions as an interrogative phrase used to elicit information about the negative aspects, disadvantages, or potential problems associated with a particular subject. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and the examples show it in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Academia

23%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Science

10%

Wiki

8%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "what are the downsides" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to inquire about the disadvantages or potential negative aspects of a subject. According to Ludwig AI, it's a correct and usable question. With over 40 real-world examples, this phrase appears across diverse sources including news, academic, and business contexts. While various alternatives exist, such as "what are the drawbacks" or "what are the disadvantages", the core meaning remains consistent. When using this phrase, it's crucial to consider both obvious and subtle downsides for a comprehensive assessment.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

What are the disadvantages?

Focuses directly on the disadvantages without specific connotation.

What are the drawbacks?

Emphasizes aspects that pull back or hinder progress.

What are the cons?

A shorter, more informal way to ask about disadvantages.

What are the negative aspects?

Highlights the negative attributes or features.

What are the limitations?

Focuses on restrictions or constraints.

What are the potential problems?

Highlights possible issues that could arise.

What are the challenges?

Focuses on difficulties that must be overcome.

What are the risks involved?

Highlights potential dangers or uncertainties.

What are the potential pitfalls?

Emphasizes hidden or unexpected dangers.

What are the adverse effects?

Focuses on harmful or unfavorable outcomes.

FAQs

How can I use "what are the downsides" in a sentence?

You can use "what are the downsides" to inquire about the disadvantages or drawbacks of a particular situation, decision, or product. For example: "Before we invest, what are the downsides of this approach?"

What can I say instead of "what are the downsides"?

You can use alternatives like "what are the drawbacks", "what are the disadvantages", or "what are the cons" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to ask "what are the downsides"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to ask "what are the downsides". Ludwig AI confirms it is a common and usable phrase in written English.

What's the difference between "what are the downsides" and "what are the advantages"?

"What are the downsides" focuses on the negative aspects or drawbacks, while "what are the advantages" concentrates on the positive aspects or benefits.