cons
Cons (noun) means the negative points or disadvantages of something, typically used alongside "pros.". Example: “Let's weigh up the pros and cons before deciding.”
How to Use Cons
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe downsides of something, as in "pros and cons," or informally, scams.
Word Forms
consed past tense, conses plural, conses singular
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
Let's weigh up the pros and _____ before deciding.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for cons
See all rhymes for cons →Frequently Asked Questions
What does “cons” mean?
The word “cons” means the negative points or disadvantages of something, typically used alongside "pros.". In plain terms, the downsides of something, as in "pros and cons," or informally, scams.
How do you pronounce “cons”?
“Cons” is pronounced KAHNZ (/ˈkɑnz/ in IPA).
How do you use “cons” in a sentence?
Here is “cons” used in a sentence: “Let's weigh up the pros and cons before deciding.”
What part of speech is “cons”?
“Cons” is a noun.
Is “cons” a common word?
“Cons” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “cons” have?
“Cons” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the negative points or disadvantages of something, typically used alongside "pros.".
What is the difference between cons and pros?
Cons are the negative points or disadvantages of something, while pros are the positive points or advantages, and the two are typically listed together when weighing a decision. "Pros and cons" is the standard phrase for comparing the benefits and drawbacks of an option.
What is the difference between cons meaning drawbacks and cons meaning scams?
When used alongside pros, cons refers to the negative points or disadvantages of something being evaluated. As the informal plural of con, cons instead refers to scams or swindles carried out to cheat someone, a completely separate and informal sense.
Is cons meaning scams formal or informal English?
Cons in the sense of scams or swindles is an informal use, typically found in casual speech or writing rather than formal or academic contexts. The pros-and-cons sense of drawbacks is neutral and appropriate in both formal and informal writing.