What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
detract
Example
The poor lighting detracted from the beauty of the painting. [detracted: past tense verb]
Example
Don't let one mistake detract from all the good work you've done. [detract: present tense verb]
Example
His rude behavior detracted from the success of the event. [detracted: past participle]
diminish
Example
The company's profits have diminished over the years. [diminished: past participle]
Example
The impact of the storm was diminished by the quick response of emergency services. [diminished: past tense verb]
Example
Her rude behavior diminished her reputation among her colleagues. [diminish: present tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Diminish is more commonly used than detract in everyday language. Diminish is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while detract is less common and often used in more specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between detract and diminish?
Both detract and diminish can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, detract may be perceived as more formal due to its less frequent usage and more specific connotations.
