detract
Lessen the value
To detract is to diminish or take away from something's value, quality, or importance.
Usually paired with "from": The scratches detract from the painting's value.
A minor flaw might not detract from overall excellence.
Unlike subtract, which removes quantities, detract works on qualities—reputation, beauty, achievement.
Express low opinion of
- denigrateCriticize unfairly to harm
- belittleTo make something seem unimportant
- discreditHarm another's reputation
- decryOpenly criticize harshly
deprecate · trivialize · undervalue · underestimate · downplay · minimize · demean · cheapen
Reduce in degree
- reduceMake smaller in degree
- diminishTo make smaller
- decreaseBecome or make smaller
- minimizeReduce to smallest extent
undermine · erode · impair · weaken · depreciate · lower · shrink · curtail
disparage
Express low opinion of
- denigrateCriticize unfairly to harm
- belittleTo make something seem unimportant
- discreditHarm another's reputation
decry · deprecate · trivialize · undervalue · underestimate · downplay · minimize · demean · cheapen · debase
lessen
Reduce in degree
minimize · undermine · erode · impair · weaken · depreciate · lower · shrink · curtail · decline
criticize
Judge unfavorably, vocally
slander · vilify · impugn · attack · condemn · censure · castigate · revile · traduce · calumniate
divert
Cause to change course
detractfocus
Concentrated attention point
concentrate · highlight · draw attention to · spotlight · emphasize
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