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Detrimental Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ’ฅ
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detrimental

[หŒdetrษชหˆmentl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

in a negative way

Causing harm or damage; unfavorable; detrimental effects on health.

Synonyms

adverse, damaging, harmful, unfavorable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
detrimental

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
harmful

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
damaging

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
unfavorable

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
adverse

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

Examples of usage

  • The detrimental effects of smoking on lung health are well-known.
  • Excessive use of social media can have a detrimental impact on mental health.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Health

  • Excessive exposure to screen time can be detrimental to mental health, leading to increased anxiety.
  • Poor nutrition can have detrimental effects on children's development, affecting both physical growth and cognitive functions.

Environment

  • Deforestation has a detrimental impact on biodiversity, leading to the extinction of various animal species.
  • Pollution can be detrimental to marine ecosystems, harming fish populations and disrupting food chains.

Education

  • High-stakes testing policies can have detrimental effects on students' learning experiences and stress levels.
  • Excluding certain groups from educational opportunities can be detrimental to social equality and economic growth.

Psychology

  • Negative self-talk can be detrimental to mental well-being, leading to lower self-esteem and increased stress.
  • Toxic relationships can have a detrimental impact on one's overall mental health and happiness.

Origin of 'detrimental'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'detrimentum', meaning 'harm' or 'loss'.
  • It entered the English language in the late 15th century, originally used in legal contexts to discuss damages.

The word 'detrimental' originated from the Latin word 'detrimentum', meaning 'loss' or 'damage'. It entered the English language in the early 17th century. The concept of something being detrimental has been recognized across various cultures and languages as a warning against actions or behaviors that may cause harm or negative consequences.

See also: detriment, detrimentally.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,420 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.