detract

[dih-trakt] / dɪˈtrækt /

VERB

take away a part; lessen

Synonyms

STRONGEST

draw away

STRONG

backbite belittle blister cheapen decrease decry depreciate derogate devaluate diminish discount discredit disesteem knock lower minimize reduce underrate undervalue vilipend withdraw

WEAK

laugh at misprize subtract from write off

Antonyms

STRONG

commend compliment develop enlarge exaggerate exalt expand extend grow increase laud overestimate overrate overvalue praise raise upgrade value

WEAK

add to optimize

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Diana said Tuesday that the counteroffer didn’t provide any financial details and dismissed it as a tactic to detract from its own takeover bid.

From The Wall Street Journal

Frazier’s natural skill as an “Entertainment Tonight” host helped smooth the transitions to Malkin’s stammering and distracting voice, but their worthless gushing detracted from the moment.

From Salon

Trade disputes with America and the row over Russian oil imports also detracted from India trading sentiment.

From MarketWatch

My total ignorance of military maneuvers in no way detracts from my enjoyment and in some ways enhances it.

From The Wall Street Journal

Given the noise following England, Stokes is working overtime as a leader, yet that cannot detract from his responsibility as a player.

From BBC

detract

Example Sentences

Related Words