detract

[dɪˈtrækt]

detract Definition

• 1. to reduce or take away the worth, value, or reputation of someone or something
• 2. to 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

Synonyms for detract

• diminish
• devalue
• belittle
• disparage
• undermine

Antonyms for detract

• enhance
• improve
• boost

Phrases with detract

• nothing can detract from

  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.

• detract from the fact

  to make it less important or noticeable

  Example

  His apology does not detract from the fact that he was wrong.

• detract from the truth

  to make something seem less true or important than it really is

  Example

  Her nervousness detracted from the truthfulness of her statement.

Origins of detract

from Latin 'detractus', past participle of 'detrahere', meaning 'to pull down'

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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.'