detraction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "detraction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of taking away from the worth or value of something, often in a critical context. Example: "His constant criticism was seen as a detraction from the team's overall morale."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

When the first electricity pylons arrived on our landscape in 1928, they too were met with objection and detraction.

The Guardian

"There's no loss of colour, no detraction from the picture quality, just added depth and added immersion and a great sense of reality," he says.

Independent

Their real life disabilities, far from a detraction, give their performances an edge that no CGI could replicate.

Independent

Hereafter, all motive of detraction of him would cease to exist, and Abraham Lincoln would take his place with Washington, Jefferson, and Adams, among the benefactors of his country and the human race".

The New Yorker

We are a city of one million people, and sometimes we acted, to our benefit and detraction, as a community of 50,000 people.

The New York Times

Some of the detraction came from his holding of the ideological trifecta most calculated to inflame liberals – believing deeply in the death penalty and Margaret Thatcher but opposing global warming.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

That's because I've tried to make a career out of doing the opposite – making it coherent, part of the canvas of the production, rather than a detraction.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

So, one of the attractive aspects of Humans (Channel 4, Sundays, 9pm) – which, after two episodes, already has the feel of being one of 2015's dramatic hits – is that this co-production between Channel 4 and the American network AMC aims for multinational appeal without the detractions that have resulted in the past from trying to be one thing to all people.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The programme's problems are small detractions from a show that is otherwise compelling and extremely effective in ruining your sleep schedule.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Some visiting officials, however, like Superintendent Eamon Lynch of the Garda Siochana, the Irish national police, say the department's problems are added draws, not detractions, and can be instructive.

The New York Times

Detractions: Have to charge battery inside camera; have to transfer the photos using bizarre nonstandard cable; movie audio cuts out completely, weirdly, while you zoom; requires a cellphone memory card (MicroSD).

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "detraction", consider whether a more specific term like "criticism" or "disparagement" might better convey your intended meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "detraction" when you simply mean disagreement. "Detraction" implies a diminishing or taking away from value, not just a differing opinion.

Linguistic Context

The word "detraction" functions primarily as a noun. It refers to the act of disparaging or diminishing the value of something. Examples provided by Ludwig show its use in contexts ranging from landscape aesthetics to political commentary.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "detraction" is a noun that refers to the act of diminishing or disparaging something. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and suitable for use in written English. It commonly appears in news and media contexts, serving to express disapproval or highlight negative aspects. While it is a valid word, consider if synonyms such as "disparagement" or "criticism" might offer greater precision depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Be mindful that "detraction" implies reducing value, not merely stating disagreement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

belittlement

Focuses on making something seem less important or significant.

disparagement

Emphasizes speaking negatively or slightingly about someone or something.

derogation

Highlights the act of lessening the merit or reputation of someone or something.

criticism

Refers to the expression of disapproval based on perceived faults or mistakes.

impairment

Focuses on the weakening or damaging effect on something's quality or function.

diminishment

Highlights a reduction in size, extent, or importance.

weakening

Implies a loss of strength or effectiveness.

undermining

Focuses on actions that gradually weaken or destroy something's effectiveness or power.

negative aspect

Refers to an unfavorable feature or characteristic.

downside

Highlights the disadvantage or negative part of something.

FAQs

How can I use "detraction" in a sentence?

You can use "detraction" to describe something that takes away from the value or quality of something else. For example, "The constant noise was a significant "detraction" from the peaceful atmosphere."

What are some synonyms for "detraction"?

Alternatives to "detraction" include "disparagement", "belittlement", or "criticism", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to use "detraction" to describe a minor flaw?

While "detraction" can refer to a minor flaw, it often implies a more significant negative impact. Consider using a milder term like "imperfection" or "drawback" for less serious issues.

What is the difference between "detraction" and "criticism"?

"Criticism" is a general expression of disapproval, while "detraction" specifically implies a lessening of value or reputation. Not all criticism results in "detraction", but "detraction" often arises from critical remarks.