Detraction: meaning, definitions and examples
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detraction
[ dɪˈtrækʃən ]
criticism, negative
Detraction refers to the action of taking away from the worth or value of something, often through negative comments or criticisms. It usually involves the spreading of unfounded or exaggerated statements that damage someone's reputation.
Synonyms
belittlement, defamation, disparagement, slander.
Examples of usage
- Her constant detraction of his efforts made teamwork difficult.
- The article was filled with detraction that overshadowed the positive aspects.
- He faced detractors who tried to undermine his credibility.
- His detraction of her achievements sparked controversy among peers.
Translations
Translations of the word "detraction" in other languages:
🇵🇹 detracção
🇮🇳 अपमान
🇩🇪 Abwertung
🇮🇩 penjelekkan
🇺🇦 приниження
🇵🇱 poniżenie
🇯🇵 中傷
🇫🇷 dénigrement
🇪🇸 desprecio
🇹🇷 küçümseme
🇰🇷 비하
🇸🇦 تحقير
🇨🇿 ponižování
🇸🇰 poníženie
🇨🇳 贬低
🇸🇮 zmanjšanje
🇮🇸 niðurhal
🇰🇿 кемсітушілік
🇬🇪 დამცირება
🇦🇿 kiçiltmə
🇲🇽 desprecio
Etymology
The word 'detraction' comes from the Latin word 'detractionem', which means 'a pulling down' or 'taking away'. This Latin term is derived from 'detrahere', where 'de-' indicates removal or reversal, and 'trahere' means 'to pull'. The concept has evolved to encompass not only the physical act of diminishing something but also the social and reputational aspects of reducing someone’s standing through negative remarks or gossip. In English, the term has been used since the late Middle Ages and has remained relevant in discussions regarding reputation management and social behavior. Over the centuries, detraction has been a tool for political maneuvering and personal vindictiveness, underscoring its historical significance in human interactions.