detract from

phrasal verb

detracted from; detracting from; detracts from
formal
: to reduce the strength, value, or importance of (something)
They worried that the scandal would seriously detract from her chances for reelection.
The overcooked vegetables detracted somewhat from an otherwise fine meal.

Examples of detract from in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
However, because each of the participants has a clear dramatic arc within WWE’s storytelling, the match is able to devolve into a mess without detracting from the spectacle too much. Daniel Dockery, Vulture, 21 Apr. 2025 In this environment, small details are magnified, and personal egos can become involved, which ultimately detracts from the bigger picture. Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes, 21 Mar. 2025 Science popularization should not be considered as inferior to or detracting from traditional scientific research. Marshall Shepherd, Forbes.com, 6 Apr. 2025 Turano explained that obesity is not only one of the most common medical diseases in pets in the U.S. but also one that detracts from their mental well-being. William Lambers, Newsweek, 9 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for detract from

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Detract from.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/detract%20from. Accessed 30 Apr. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!