noun
die Schattenseite, -n
downside
The German word "Schattenseite" is a compound noun made of:
- Schatten – "shadow"
- Seite – "side"
Meaning:
"Schattenseite" literally means "shadow side" and figuratively refers to the downside, drawback, or the negative aspect of something.
Similar words:
- Nachteil (disadvantage)
- Kehrseite (flip side)
- Schatten (shadow, often used metaphorically)
Difference:
- Schattenseite emphasizes the hidden or less visible negative aspect, often implying a contrast with a positive side.
- Nachteil focuses more directly on disadvantages or harms.
- Kehrseite is similar but can imply the opposite face of something, not necessarily only negative.
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Examples
Über die Schattenseiten des Erfolgs wird selten gesprochen.noun
The downsides of success are rarely discussed.
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