disadvantage

/ˌdɪsədˈvæntɪdʒ/
verb
  1. To put someone or something in an unfavorable position; to cause difficulty or harm.
    • Her lack of formal education disadvantaged her when applying for jobs.
    • The new tax laws disadvantage small farmers more than large corporations.
    • The rainy weather disadvantaged the outdoor wedding ceremony.
noun
  1. A condition or situation that makes success, progress, or advantage more difficult; a drawback or unfavorable factor.
    • Not speaking the local language can be a serious disadvantage when traveling abroad.
    • The team's lack of experience was a clear disadvantage in the championship game.
    • One major disadvantage of living in a big city is the high cost of housing.
  2. Loss or harm, especially to one's reputation, finances, or well-being.
    • The scandal worked to the politician's disadvantage in the election.
    • Selling the house now would be to our financial disadvantage.
    • He felt that the new policy put small businesses at a disadvantage.