detract
verb (used without object)
to take away a part, as from quality, value, or reputation (usually followed byfrom ).
detracted
-
past participleof detract.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
-
past tense formof detract.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
detractverb (used without object)to take away a part, as from quality, value, or reputation (usually followed byfrom ).
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The city’s price correction, along with a broader run-up in inventory in Texas, has detracted from Austin’s near-term appeal to builders, many of whom offer buyers incentives at the expense of their margins.
From Barron's ● May 31, 2026
Trade detracted 0.1 percentage point from growth, with imports up 1.5% and exports up 1.0%.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 3, 2025
Sony also maintained that budget cuts within CBS had detracted from the network’s efforts to support the two shows.
From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 16, 2025
In the case of “Dancing Through Life,” the heinous backlighting detracted from the majesty of the film’s practical set pieces in the same scene.
From Salon ● Jan. 7, 2025
The electric lights detracted, but when the sun rose the display would show at its best advantage.
From "The Heart is a Lonely Hunter" by Carson McCullers
