detract
verb (used without object)
to take away a part, as from quality, value, or reputation (usually followed byfrom ).
were detracting
-
past progressiveof detract.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
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.
Debbie Wright is about to move into her first flat, but said rising energy bills, as well as lower benefits payments, were detracting from the excitement of her potential independence.
From BBC ● Sep. 30, 2021
Parliamentary projections have become so popular that in 2016 the House of Commons complained that they were detracting from authorised images, including a vast photo of Usain Bolt displayed during the 2012 Olympics.
From The Guardian ● Jan. 3, 2018
Employees there tended to want more career development than Handy could afford, and the resources dedicated to them were detracting from other parts of the business, like “growth or marketing function,” Hanrahan says.
From Slate ● Jul. 24, 2015
When he felt that his scientific writings were detracting from his civic obligations, Geddes switched to town-planning and slum clearance in Edinburgh.
From Time Magazine Archive
