detract
Definitions
To reduce or take away from the value, quality, or enjoyment of something (usually 'detract from')
减损，贬损（某物的价值、质量或乐趣，常用 detract from）
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedde- (down, away) + tract (pull) = 'pull down/away.' To detract from something is to pull away part of its worth — one ugly flaw can detract from an otherwise beautiful design.
Root tra still carries 109 more wordsUsage Guide
Almost always used intransitively with 'from': X detracts from Y. You don't 'detract something' directly. Compare distract (pull attention away from a task) vs detract (pull value away from a thing).
Example Sentences
- 1.
The ugly fence detracts from the beauty of the garden.
- 2.
One small mistake shouldn't detract from her excellent work.
Easily Confused
detract vs distract — they look alike but pull different things. distract pulls attention away (loud noise distracts you). detract pulls value or merit away (a flaw detracts from quality). One steals focus; the other steals worth.