disadvantage

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dis·ad·van·tage / ˌdisədˈvantij/ • n. an unfavorable circumstance or condition that reduces the chances of success or effectiveness: a major disadvantage is the limited nature of the data | the impact of poverty and disadvantage on children. • v. [tr.] place in an unfavorable position in relation to someone or something else: we are disadvantaging the next generation.PHRASES: at a disadvantage in an unfavorable position relative to someone or someone else: stringent regulations have put farmers at a disadvantage.to one's disadvantage so as to cause harm to one's interests or standing: his poor record inevitably worked to his disadvantage.