Detract: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when something takes away from the value, importance, or quality of something else. It often implies a reduction in the perceived worth or effectiveness.

• The loud music detracts from the ambiance of the restaurant.
• Her constant interruptions detract from the seriousness of the discussion.

Use when something becomes less in size, importance, or intensity. It can apply to both tangible and intangible things.

• His illness diminished his ability to work.
• The new evidence may diminish her chances of winning the case.

Commonly used in financial and economic contexts to refer to the decrease in the value of an asset over time. It can also mean to belittle or make something seem less valuable.

• The car starts to depreciate the moment you drive it off the lot.
• He tends to depreciate his own achievements.

Use in a general context to indicate a reduction in quantity, intensity, or degree. It is often used in everyday language.

• Taking this medicine should lessen your pain.
• Efforts were made to lessen the impact of the crisis.