inconvénient
A disadvantage or drawback; a factor that makes something less attractive or more difficult. It is the direct counterpart to 'avantage' in logical argumentation.
Examples
3 of 5Le seul inconvénient, c'est qu'il n'y a pas de parking.
The only drawback is that there is no parking.
Cette décision présente certains inconvénients pour nos clients.
This decision presents certain disadvantages for our clients.
C'est sympa, mais l'inconvénient c'est que c'est loin.
It's nice, but the downside is that it's far.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of 'inconvenience' in English.
Quick Quiz
Vivre en ville a des avantages, mais aussi des ____.
Correct!
The correct answer is: inconvénients
Examples
Le seul inconvénient, c'est qu'il n'y a pas de parking.
everydayThe only drawback is that there is no parking.
Cette décision présente certains inconvénients pour nos clients.
businessThis decision presents certain disadvantages for our clients.
C'est sympa, mais l'inconvénient c'est que c'est loin.
informalIt's nice, but the downside is that it's far.
Il faut peser les avantages et les inconvénients du nucléaire.
academicOne must weigh the advantages and disadvantages of nuclear power.
Je ne vois aucun inconvénient à votre proposition.
formalI see no objection to your proposal.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
si cela ne vous présente pas d'inconvénient
if it's not a problem for you
le revers de la médaille
the other side of the coin
avoir des inconvénients
to have drawbacks
Often Confused With
Incommodité refers to physical discomfort, while inconvénient is a logical drawback.
Usage Notes
Often used in the phrase 'avantages et inconvénients' to structure a balanced argument.
Common Mistakes
Spelling it with 'a' instead of 'e' (inconveniant is wrong).
Memory Tip
Think of 'inconvenience' in English.
Word Origin
From Latin 'inconvenientem', meaning not suitable.
Grammar Patterns
Quick Quiz
Vivre en ville a des avantages, mais aussi des ____.
Correct!
The correct answer is: inconvénients
Related Phrases
More academic writing words
améliorer
B1To make something better or to improve. It is used in many contexts, from self-improvement to social or technical progress.
analyser
B1To examine something in detail, typically in order to explain or interpret it. This is a high-frequency academic verb for scientific and literary discussions.
avantage
B1A condition or circumstance that puts one in a favorable or superior position. In IELTS, this is used frequently in 'advantages and disadvantages' essays.
cependant
B1A transition word used to introduce a contrast or contradiction to a previous statement. It functions similarly to 'however' or 'nevertheless' in English.
comparer
B1To estimate, measure, or note the similarity or dissimilarity between two or more things. Essential for comparative analysis in essays.
considérer
B1To think carefully about something, typically before making a decision. It also means to regard someone or something in a specified way.
expliquer
B1To make an idea or situation clear by describing it in more detail or revealing the cause. Vital for analysis and argumentation.
suggérer
B1To put forward for consideration or to indicate something indirectly. Used to express hypotheses or interpret findings in writing.
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