Other forms: disadvantages
A disadvantage is something that holds you back compared with others. A serious disadvantage, at a disadvantage, the disadvantages of it.
At a disadvantage is the fixed phrase for being in a weaker position. As a plural it names the drawbacks of a plan, which is half of any honest comparison. Disadvantaged as an adjective is the standard term in social policy for people facing structural obstacles. Note that a disadvantage is relative — it only exists compared with somebody else.
1noundisadvantageSomething that holds you back compared with others.
“Not speaking the local language was a big disadvantage when she looked for work.”
disadvantage is a drawback.
Also accepted in games: drawback
Old French desavantage is des- plus avantage, from avant, before. An advantage is being in front and a disadvantage is not.
Old French
desavantage
Middle English
disavauntage
English, today
disadvantage
From Middle English disavauntage, from Old French desavantage.
Etymology from Wiktionary, CC BY-SA