Detract: meaning, definitions and examples

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detract

 

[ dɪˈtrækt ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

from reputation

To reduce or take away from the worth or value of something. It can also mean to divert or distract someone's attention.

Synonyms

depreciate, diminish, lessen

Examples of usage

  • He felt that any criticism would detract from his reputation.
  • Don't let personal issues detract you from your goals.
  • The new design detracted from the overall aesthetic of the building.

Translations

Translations of the word "detract" in other languages:

🇵🇹 detratar

🇮🇳 कम करना

🇩🇪 ablenken

🇮🇩 mengurangi

🇺🇦 зменшувати

🇵🇱 umniejszać

🇯🇵 減らす (へらす)

🇫🇷 diminuer

🇪🇸 restar

🇹🇷 küçültmek

🇰🇷 감소시키다

🇸🇦 يقلل

🇨🇿 snižovat

🇸🇰 zmenšovať

🇨🇳 减少 (jiǎnshǎo)

🇸🇮 zmanjšati

🇮🇸 draga úr

🇰🇿 азайту

🇬🇪 შემცირება

🇦🇿 azaltmaq

🇲🇽 restar

Etymology

The word 'detract' originated from the Latin word 'detractare', which means 'to pull off' or 'to take away'. It entered the English language in the late 15th century. Over time, 'detract' has evolved to encompass the meanings of diminishing value or diverting attention.

See also: intractable, protract, protracted, protraction, protractor, retract, subtract, subtraction, tract, tractability, tractable, traction, tractor.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,509, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.