detract Definition
- 1to reduce or take away the worth, value, or reputation of someone or something
- 2to draw attention away from something
Using detract: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "detract" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
His rude behavior detracted from his otherwise impressive performance.
Example
The poor lighting detracted from the beauty of the painting.
Example
The loud music detracted from the speaker's message.
detract Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with detract
used to emphasize that something is so good or impressive that nothing negative can diminish its value
Example
Nothing can detract from the beauty of this place.
Example
His apology does not detract from the fact that he was wrong.
Example
Her nervousness detracted from the truthfulness of her statement.
Origins of detract
from Latin 'detractus', past participle of 'detrahere', meaning 'to pull down'
Summary: detract in Brief
The verb 'detract' [dɪˈtrækt] means to reduce or take away the worth, value, or reputation of someone or something. It can also mean to draw attention away from something. Examples include 'His rude behavior detracted from his otherwise impressive performance.' and 'The poor lighting detracted from the beauty of the painting.' Synonyms include 'belittle' and 'disparage,' while antonyms include 'enhance' and 'boost.'