advantage
10 synonyms and 2 antonyms for advantage, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — Something that puts you in a better or more favorable position than others.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use advantage
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old French avantage, from avant meaning "before" — the same root that gives us "advance."
Full origin of advantage →Frequently asked questions
What does “advantage” mean?
The word “advantage” means something that puts you in a better or more favorable position than others. In plain terms, a benefit or edge that puts you ahead of others.
How do you pronounce “advantage”?
“Advantage” is pronounced uhd-VAHN-tihj (/ədˈvɑːn.tɪd͡ʒ/ in IPA).
How do you use “advantage” in a sentence?
Here is “advantage” used in a sentence: “Speaking three languages gave her a big advantage in the job market.”
What is another word for “advantage”?
Words with a similar meaning to “advantage” include favor, favorise and benefit.
What is the opposite of “advantage”?
The opposite of “advantage” — its antonyms — are disadvantage and drawback.
What part of speech is “advantage”?
Depending on how it is used, “advantage” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “advantage” come from?
The word “advantage” comes from Old French. From Old French avantage, from avant meaning "before" — the same root that gives us "advance.".
Is “advantage” a common word?
“Advantage” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
What is the difference between an advantage and a benefit?
A benefit is simply something helpful or good that you gain, like the benefit of fresh air. An advantage is a benefit that puts you ahead of others or of an alternative — it implies comparison or competition. Every advantage is a benefit, but not every benefit gives you an edge over someone else.
What does 'take advantage of' mean?
It has two senses. Positively, it means to make good use of an opportunity, as in 'take advantage of the sunshine.' Negatively, it means to exploit someone or something unfairly for your own gain. Context and tone tell you which meaning applies — one is smart, the other is selfish.
Why is having an advantage important?
An advantage improves your chances of success by putting you in a stronger position than rivals or than you'd otherwise be. In business, sport, or study, small advantages often decide outcomes. Recognising and using your advantages — and reducing your disadvantages — is central to competing and achieving goals effectively.
What is the opposite of advantage?
The main opposite is 'disadvantage' — something that puts you in a worse position. Related antonyms include 'drawback,' 'handicap,' and 'setback.' In sports and games, 'advantage' also has technical opposites set by the rules, but in everyday use 'disadvantage' is the natural counterpart.