downside / shady side
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downside
The negative, unpleasant, or problematic aspects of a thing, person, or situation.
Der große Erfolg hatte auch seine Schattenseiten, wie den Verlust der Privatsphäre.
The great success also had its downsides, such as the loss of privacy.
The word is made up of 'der Schatten' (the shadow/shade) and 'die Seite' (the side). So it literally describes the side that lies in the shade. This basic idea is then also applied to figurative, negative aspects.
Wir stellten unsere Stühle auf die Schattenseite der Terrasse.
We put our chairs on the shady side of the terrace.
You can recognize the figurative meaning when abstract things are being discussed, such as a profession, success, or a decision. The literal meaning always refers to a physical place that is not lit by the sun.
Die ständige Öffentlichkeit ist die Schattenseite seines Berufs.
Constant public attention is the downside of his profession.
In the figurative sense, the phrase 'etwas hat seine Schattenseiten' (something has its downsides) is often used. People also speak of the 'Schattenseiten des Ruhms' (downsides of fame) or 'des Lebens' (of life).
Das Leben als Profisportler hat auch seine Schattenseiten.
Life as a professional athlete has its downsides too.
When referring to the literal meaning, the preposition 'auf' is almost always used with the dative to describe the location.
Die Pflanzen wachsen besser auf der Schattenseite des Balkons.
The plants grow better on the shady side of the balcony.
advantage
'der Vorteil' and 'die Schattenseite' describe two different sides of something. An advantage is the positive side that helps someone or brings a benefit. A downside is a negative or unpleasant aspect that often only becomes visible on closer inspection. 'Vorteil' fits clear plus points. 'Schattenseite' fits when something seems good in itself but also brings problems with it.
Die Schattenseite der neuen Stelle ist, dass Lena oft am Wochenende arbeiten muss.
The downside of the new job is that Lena often has to work on weekends.
Wenn ich mit dem Zug fahre, habe ich den Vorteil, dass ich unterwegs lesen kann.
When I travel by train, I have the advantage of being able to read on the way.