drawback

[ draw-bak ]

noun

1. a hindrance or disadvantage; an undesirable or objectionable feature.
2. Commerce. an amount paid back from a charge made.
3. Government. a refund of tariff or other tax, as when imported goods are reexported.

drawback

/ ˈdrɔːˌbæk /

noun

1. a disadvantage or hindrance
2. a refund of customs or excise duty paid on goods that are being exported or used in the production of manufactured exports

verb

1. to retreat; move backwards
2. to turn aside from an undertaking

Word History and Origins

Origin of drawback¹

First recorded in 1610–20; noun use of verb phrase draw back

Example Sentences

When choosing your structure, look at the benefits and drawbacks of each type.

From Salon

He's clearly disenchanted by Cranford High and the drawbacks of being queer in the small town suburbs, but then he finds this unlikely camaraderie and comfort.

From Salon

In another drawback, chloride ions from the salt in the briny chamber also slowly react at the electrode to form chlorine gas, a dangerous poison.

From Science Magazine

SMRs themselves are being promoted, in part, as a solution to one of the biggest drawbacks facing nuclear power today.

From BBC

Orange County Fire Authority Chief Brian Fennessy acknowledged drawbacks to use of retardant, including harm to aquatic life if it spills into waterways.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• defect
• deficiency
• difficulty
• disadvantage
• failing
• fault
• flaw
• hindrance
• hitch
• impediment
• imperfection
• inconvenience
• obstacle
• shortcoming
• snag
• stumbling block
• weakness