Translation guide
A disadvantage, negative aspect, or problem that makes something less good or less desirable.
A general disadvantage or weak point of a plan, product, situation, etc.
The most common and neutral word for a flaw, defect, or disadvantage. Used for people, objects, plans, etc.
An undesirable result or side effect of an action or situation.
A hidden disadvantage or condition that makes a seemingly good offer less attractive.
欠点 is the most general and can be used for flaws in objects, people, or abstract things. 短所 is often used for personal characteristics and is commonly paired with 長所 (merit). デメリット is a loanword frequently used in business or casual lists of pros and cons, often alongside メリット.
彼の短所は優しすぎることだ。
His drawback is that he's too kind.
このシステムのデメリットはコストだ。
The drawback of this system is the cost.
There is no single Japanese word that covers all uses of 'drawback'. Avoid direct translations like 引き戻し (which means 'pulling back'). Choose the word based on context: flaw (欠点), negative side (マイナス面), or hidden catch (落とし穴).
都会に住む主な欠点は騒音だ。
The main drawback of living in the city is the noise.
この方法の欠点は何ですか？
What are the drawbacks of this method?
The drawback of this plan is that it costs too much.
彼の唯一の欠点は、時間にルーズなことだ。
His only drawback is that he's not punctual.
Often used in contrast with 長所 (strong point). Common when evaluating pros and cons, especially for people or character traits.
この車の短所は燃費が悪いことです。
The drawback of this car is its poor fuel efficiency.
Loanword from English 'demerit'. Very common in business and casual contexts when listing pros and cons, often paired with メリット.
在宅勤務にはメリットもデメリットもある。
Working from home has both advantages and drawbacks.
A difficult point or drawback; slightly more formal and often used in written analysis.
この提案の難点は、実現可能性が低いことだ。
The drawback of this proposal is its low feasibility.
Literally 'minus side'. Very common in spoken and written Japanese to refer to the negative aspect of something.
便利な反面、マイナス面もある。
While it's convenient, there are also drawbacks.
A pattern meaning 'has the drawback that...'. Use after a clause describing the drawback.
このアプリは便利だが、動作が遅いという欠点がある。
This app is useful, but it has the drawback of being slow.
Literally 'pitfall'. Used metaphorically for an unexpected drawback or trap in a plan or deal.
その契約には何か落とし穴があるに違いない。
There must be some drawback (catch) in that contract.
Means 'there's a catch' or 'there's a hidden side'. Used when something seems too good to be true.
そんなうまい話には裏があるよ。
There's a catch to such a sweet deal.