drawback

noun. a negative aspect of a situation

noun. a negative aspect of a situation

noun. lapse, shortcoming

noun. lapse, shortcoming

noun. problem, difficulty

Word Origin & History

"hindrance, disadvantage,"1720, from draw (v.) + back (adv.). The notion is of something that "holds back" success or activity.

The mirror instrument has this drawback, however—it does not 'record' the message.

The drawback was that I had not saved it, as Anthony had saved Monny.

The only drawback to the Cobham visits were the "dear, dear boys!"

The only drawback was that there was nothing in the house for dinner.

Weakness of limb or want of wealth was no drawback in his eyes.

This great over-appreciation of present goods is a drawback to their progress.

If it had not been for some shortcomings in the provisions there would have been no drawback.

My happiness would have been too great if there had been no drawback to it.

If it had not been for this drawback I should probably have cultivated his society.

"There may be one drawback to having lunch outdoors," said Phil.