A2noun1K

Advantage

UK /["/ədˈvɑːntɪdʒ/"]/US /["/ədˈvæntɪdʒ/"]/

Definition

a thing that helps you to be better or more successful than other people

In simple words: A benefit or a positive aspect of something.

Examples

  • Having a strong educational background is often an advantage in the job market.
  • One advantage of living in a big city is the availability of public transport.
  • She had the advantage over her competitors because of her previous experience.
  • In this negotiation, both sides need to feel they have an advantage.
  • Understanding the market gives you a significant advantage in business.

Usage notes

Use this word when discussing benefits or positive features. It is appropriate in both formal and informal contexts, such as business discussions or everyday conversations.

Grammar pattern

have + advantage

Memory hint

Think of 'advantage' as 'add value'—it adds something positive.

Collocations

  • big
  • considerable
  • enormous
  • have
  • gain
  • get
  • to somebody’s advantage
  • advantage in
  • advantage over
  • to good advantage
  • to somebody/​something’s best advantage
  • big
  • considerable
  • enormous
  • have
  • gain
  • get
  • to somebody’s advantage
  • advantage in
  • advantage over
  • to good advantage
  • to somebody/​something’s best advantage

Synonyms

  • exploit

Antonyms

  • disadvantage
  • drawback
  • hindrance

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'advantage' with 'advantaged', which implies someone is privileged.
  • Using 'advantage' as a verb, when it's only a noun.
  • Confusing the phrase 'take advantage' with 'take advantage of'—the latter is correct.