1. to take away from the worth or value of something; to diminish
Usage: usually followed by ‘from’

Examples

• The graffiti detracts from the beauty of the historic building.
• His poor attitude detracted from his otherwise excellent performance.
• Nothing could detract from her joy on graduation day.
• The loud music detracted from the peaceful atmosphere of the restaurant.
• Critics argued that the modern addition detracted from the church’s original architecture.
• Her nervousness didn’t detract from the quality of her presentation.