downside

[doun-sahyd]

noun

1. the lower side or part.

2. a downward trend, especially in stock prices.

3. a discouraging or negative aspect.

adjective

1. of or involving a decline, especially in stock prices.

   The downside risk on this stock is considered far greater than the potential for gain.

downside

/ ˈdaʊnˌsaɪd /

noun

1. the disadvantageous aspect of a situation

   the downside of twentieth-century living

Word History and Origins

Origin of downside¹

First recorded in 1675–85; down ¹ + side ¹

Example Sentences

“We see downside risk to consensus revenue estimates from ongoing mortgage runoff, sub-system business loan growth, and lending competition,” MS says.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

The downside was that it came against a backdrop of Covid and empty stadiums.

Read more on BBC

Elections would extend the period of political uncertainty, raising “downside risks” for the euro, he says.

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On the downside, inflation and longevity will be her biggest challenges if and/or when she gives up work completely.

Read more on MarketWatch

The downside: As I’ve aged, the list has become so long it’s hard to keep track.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• disadvantage 
• drawback 
• flaw 
• inconvenience