Detrimental: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word to describe something that has a harmful effect, especially when talking about health, development, or progress.

• Smoking is detrimental to your health
• Prolonged exposure to the sun can be detrimental to your skin

A general word used to describe anything that causes harm or injury, often used in the context of health, substances, or behaviors.

• Too much sugar is harmful to your teeth
• Secondhand smoke is harmful to your health

This word is used to describe something that causes physical harm, breaks something, or negatively affects a reputation.

• The scandal had a damaging effect on his career
• Acid rain is damaging to the ecosystem

This word is used to describe conditions or situations that are not beneficial or advantageous, often used in formal or professional settings.

• The weather conditions were unfavorable for sailing
• The team received unfavorable reviews from the critics

This word is often used in formal contexts to describe effects or conditions that are harmful or unfavorable. Commonly found in medical, environmental, or economic discussions.

• The medication can cause adverse side effects
• The company faced adverse market conditions