detract

American  

[dih-trakt] / dɪˈtrækt /

verb (used without object)

1. to take away a part, as from quality, value, or reputation (usually followed byfrom ).

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verb (used with object)

1. to draw away or divert; distract.

   to detract another's attention from more important issues.

2. Archaic. to take away (a part); abate.

   The dilapidated barn detracts charm from the landscape.

detract British  

/ dɪˈtrækt /

verb

1. to take away a part (of); diminish

   her anger detracts from her beauty

2. (tr) to distract or divert

3. obsolete (tr) to belittle or disparage

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Usage

Detract is sometimes wrongly used where distract is meant: a noise distracted (not detracted ) my attention

Other Word Forms

• detractingly adverb
• detractive adjective
• detractively adverb
• detractor noun
• undetracting adjective
• undetractingly adverb

Etymology

Origin of detract

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English, from Middle French detracter or directly from Latin dētractus “drawn away” (past participle of dētrahere ), equivalent to dē- de- + tractus “drawn”; tract ¹

Example Sentences

The panoramic view and shifting of perspectives broaden the book’s interest but detract from its focus.

From The Wall Street Journal

They are annoyed that, for the second consecutive season, city issues have detracted from the hope and faith and joy that surrounds opening day.

From Los Angeles Times

While the show loosely follows a story, I didn’t always find it easy to follow, though that didn’t detract from the experience.

From Salon

The attention on Andrew has detracted from Charles’s proudest achievements and initiatives.

From The Wall Street Journal

The spokeswoman said at the time of Joslin’s firing that displaying signs, banners and flags outside of designated areas “detracts from visitor experience and the protection of the park.”

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• draw away