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

“I think what some of the advertising lawyers have done has hurt a little, but I don’t think that detracts from all the good that’s been done,” Jacoby told The Times.

From Los Angeles Times

Diana said Tuesday that the counteroffer didn’t provide any financial details and dismissed it as a tactic to detract from its own takeover bid.

From The Wall Street Journal

Frazier’s natural skill as an “Entertainment Tonight” host helped smooth the transitions to Malkin’s stammering and distracting voice, but their worthless gushing detracted from the moment.

From Salon

Trade disputes with America and the row over Russian oil imports also detracted from India trading sentiment.

From MarketWatch

My total ignorance of military maneuvers in no way detracts from my enjoyment and in some ways enhances it.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• draw away