Detriment: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe something that causes harm or damage, often in a more formal context. It can refer to an abstract concept or general well-being.

• Continuing to smoke is a detriment to your health.
• The new policy was implemented to the detriment of employee morale.

A general term to describe both physical and emotional injury. It is less formal than 'detriment' and can be used in a wide range of contexts.

• His reckless driving could harm innocent people.
• Spreading false information can harm someone's reputation.

This word is often used to describe physical harm to objects, infrastructure, or the environment. It can also apply to reputation or relationships but is less formal than 'detriment.'

• The storm caused significant damage to the roads.
• His comments damaged the company's reputation.

Typically used to describe a situation where someone or something is in a less favorable position compared to others. Often used in competitive contexts or when comparing outcomes.

• Growing up in a low-income family can be a significant disadvantage.
• Starting the race late put him at a disadvantage.

Use 'detriment' to describe something that causes harm or damage to someone or something over time. It is often used in a more formal context.

• Smoking is a detriment to your health.
• Working too many hours can be a detriment to your personal life.

Use 'disadvantage' when referring to circumstances or conditions that make success or progress difficult. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

• Growing up in poverty can be a significant disadvantage.
• Being short might be a disadvantage in playing basketball.

Use 'hindrance' to talk about something that makes it difficult for you to do something or for progress to happen. It often implies an obstacle that is more of a nuisance than extremely harmful.

• Her lack of experience was a hindrance to her career.
• The heavy traffic was a hindrance to our travel plans.

Use 'obstacle' to describe something that blocks your path or prevents progress. It can be used both literally and figuratively.

• The fallen tree was an obstacle on the hiking trail.
• Fear of failure is a common obstacle to achieving your goals.

Typically used in formal writing or speech to indicate something that causes harm or loss; often involves long-term effects.

• The policy changes were implemented to the detriment of small businesses.
• He continued to smoke, much to the detriment of his health.

Often used to describe physical or psychological injury to people, animals, or the environment. It can imply both temporary and permanent effects.

• Smoking can cause serious harm to your lungs.
• No harm was done to the animals during the experiment.

Commonly used when referring to physical harm or destruction to objects, property, or body parts. Can also be used metaphorically.

• The storm caused significant damage to the buildings.
• She damaged her reputation by lying.

Generally used in formal or medical contexts to describe the weakening or worsening of function or condition, often used for senses or abilities.

• Alcohol can impair your ability to drive.
• His hearing was impaired after years of working in a loud environment.