detract — to reduce the worth or value of something; to take away from
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to reduce the worth or value of something; to take away from
Pronunciation (IPA): /dɪˈtrækt/
Example Sentences
- My teacher said my colorful socks detract from my serious presentation about economics.
- Nothing can detract from her natural beauty, not even that terrible haircut.
- The graffiti on the historic building detracts from its cultural significance.
detract
VERB[/dɪˈtrækt/]
to reduce the worth or value of something; to take away from
Despite his expensive suit, the massive coffee stain on his white shirt heavily detracted from his professional appearance.
DE(away) + TRACT(pull) — the loud ringing phone managed to pull(TRACT) everyone's attention away(DE), serving to detract from the brilliant lecture.
While the glowing neon sign tried to attract customers, the smelly garbage bags next to the door only managed to detract from the restaurant's appeal.
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'detractus', the past participle of 'detrahere', meaning 'to draw away or pull down'. It combines the prefix 'de-' (away) with 'trahere' (to draw or drag).
Breakdown
de- (away, down) + tract (draw, pull from Latin trahere) = detract
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My teacher said my colorful socks detract from my serious presentation about economics.”
“Nothing can detract from her natural beauty, not even that terrible haircut.”
“The graffiti on the historic building detracts from its cultural significance.”
“His constant jokes detract from the seriousness of the meeting.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related
Want to master 19,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.