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detract

verb

/dɪˈtrækt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of detract

To diminish or reduce the value, quality, or reputation of something or someone.
"Mispronunciations can detract from the effectiveness of the speech."

Detailed meaning of detract

When you detract from something, you are taking away from its overall worth or positive attributes. For example, if you criticize someone's work unfairly, you may detract from their reputation as a skilled professional. Similarly, if you remove an important feature from a product, it may detract from its overall usefulness or appeal to consumers. The act of detracting can be intentional or unintentional, and can occur through actions or words. In essence, detracting is the opposite of adding value or enhancing something, and can have negative consequences for the affected party.

Example sentences containing detract

1. His lack of punctuality did nothing but detract from his professional image.
2. A minor flaw shouldn't detract from the overall beauty of the artwork.
3. Don't let criticism detract you from pursuing your dreams.
4. Their negativity can detract from the team's morale and productivity.
5. Adding too many unnecessary details can detract from the clarity of your writing.
6. Her dedication to excellence never allowed setbacks to detract her.

History and etymology of detract

The word 'detract' has an interesting etymology that traces its origins back to Latin. It derives from the Latin verb 'detractare,' which is a combination of 'de' meaning 'away from' and 'tractare' meaning 'to handle' or 'to treat.' This combination of elements in Latin gives us the sense of taking away or diminishing something through treatment or handling. Over time, 'detract' evolved in Middle English, retaining its core meaning of diminishing or reducing the value, quality, or reputation of something or someone. Its etymological roots highlight the idea of removing or detracting from the positive attributes of a subject.

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Further usage examples of detract

1. Constructive feedback should aim to improve, not detract from, performance.
2. Let's focus on solutions, not things that detract from our progress.
3. Negative comments can detract from the positive impact of a great presentation.
4. A small error in the report should not detract from its overall quality.
5. Don't let fear of failure detract you from taking calculated risks.
6. Negative comments can detract from the overall experience.
7. A small error can detract significantly from the final product.
8. Please don't let minor issues detract from your achievements.
9. The flaws in the design detract from its appeal.
10. Their behavior can detract from the team's performance.
11. The loud noise will detract from the peaceful atmosphere.
12. Don't let distractions detract from your focus on the task.
13. Petty arguments can detract from family gatherings.
14. A lack of evidence may detract from the credibility of the claim.
15. The old paint job can detract from the beauty of the house.
16. Excessive advertising can detract from the user experience on websites.
17. Poor lighting can detract from the ambiance of a room.
18. Issues with the script can detract from the quality of the film.
19. Political disagreements can detract from the unity of a nation.
20. Let's not allow personal biases to detract from our decision-making.
21. Bad weather can detract from the enjoyment of outdoor events.
22. Lack of support can detract from an individual's self-confidence.
23. The typo in the report may detract from its professionalism.
24. A pessimistic attitude can detract from your overall happiness.