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detractor

noun

/dɪˈtræk tər/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of detractor

A person who actively criticizes, disparages, or speaks negatively about someone or something.
"Despite the success of the film, there were detractors who claimed it lacked originality."

Detailed meaning of detractor

A detractor often seeks to undermine the reputation, credibility, or achievements of another individual, group, or idea. They engage in persistent fault-finding, pointing out perceived flaws, weaknesses, or shortcomings, often with the intention of diminishing the positive perception or influence of the subject. Detractors may use various means, such as spreading rumors, writing negative reviews, or expressing their disapproval publicly. Their criticisms can range from personal attacks to more objective assessments, but the overarching characteristic is their tendency to consistently focus on the negative aspects. While detractors' motivations may vary, they often arise from personal biases, envy, competition, or differing viewpoints. It is important to distinguish detractors from constructive critics, as detractors typically aim to devalue or discredit rather than provide genuine feedback or foster improvement.

Example sentences containing detractor

1. The artist had to deal with a relentless detractor who criticized every brushstroke of their paintings.
2. The politician faced numerous detractors who constantly questioned their integrity.
3. The author's work received acclaim from many, but there were still a few detractors who dismissed it as shallow.
4. The singer's powerful performance silenced even the most persistent detractors in the audience.
5. The athlete's impressive achievements drew the attention of detractors who questioned their methods.
6. The company's innovative product faced detractors who doubted its practicality.

History and etymology of detractor

The noun 'detractor' has its etymological roots in Latin, specifically from the word 'detractare,' which is a combination of 'de,' meaning 'down from' or 'away from,' and 'tractare,' meaning 'to handle' or 'to manage.' In Latin, 'detractare' originally referred to the act of drawing or dragging something down, often in a physical sense. Over time, its meaning shifted to encompass the figurative sense of undermining or belittling through criticism or negative words. As 'detractare' evolved linguistically, it eventually made its way into English as 'detractor.' Thus, the etymology of 'detractor' highlights its historical connection to individuals who actively criticize, disparage, or speak negatively about someone or something, embodying the idea of figuratively pulling down or undermining the subject of their criticism.

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Further usage examples of detractor

1. The professor's groundbreaking research faced detractors who criticized its methodology.
2. Despite the positive reviews, there were detractors who dismissed the book as mere sensationalism.
3. The celebrity's philanthropic efforts were met with detractors who accused them of seeking attention.
4. The team's victory silenced the detractors who had doubted their abilities.
5. The politician's detractors seized every opportunity to publicly criticize their policies.
6. The detractor's harsh words failed to dampen her spirit.
7. Every achievement had a detractor ready to criticize.
8. The artist faced detractors who doubted her talent.
9. Despite the detractors, he pursued his dreams relentlessly.
10. The movie's detractors found fault with every scene.
11. Her success silenced many of her early detractors.
12. Detractors accused the politician of dishonesty.
13. The singer had to contend with detractors at every turn.
14. His detractors only fueled his determination to succeed.
15. Even in the face of criticism, she ignored her detractors.
16. The company's detractors questioned its ethics.
17. Detractors couldn't undermine the team's unity.
18. The author responded gracefully to her detractors.
19. Detractors failed to deter their commitment to the cause.
20. Despite detractors, their love endured and grew stronger.
21. Detractors spread rumors to tarnish her reputation.
22. His detractors underestimated his resilience.
23. The athlete proved her worth to the detractors.
24. Even the harshest detractors admired her perseverance.
25. The detractors' negativity couldn't overshadow his success.