detractions
Attacks on reputation
Detractions are statements or actions that diminish someone's reputation or worth.
The word suggests criticism that takes away from merit rather than adding perspective: Despite the detractions of her rivals, she won the award.
Detractions may be fair criticisms or unfair attacks—the word emphasizes the diminishing effect rather than the validity.
Seeking out imperfections
- disparagementCriticism meant to diminish
- belittlementVerbal diminishing of worth
- censureFormal institutional disapproval
- condemnationSevere disapproval expressed formally
disapproval · objection · reproach · complaints · shortcomings · flaws · nitpicking · carping
Spoken false defamation
- libelPrinted defamation
- smearSpread or defame
- calumnyMalicious false statement
- vilificationAbusive condemnation of someone
denigration · discredit · maligning · backbiting · mudslinging · character assassination · traducement · besmirchment
Entertainments or alternate routes
- interruptionsBreaks in continuity
- disturbancesInterruptions to normal order
- disruptionsInterruptions to normal activity
- interferenceUnwelcome involvement in affairs
sidetracking · deflections · tangents · red herrings · derailments · noise · detours · misdirection
faultfinding
Seeking out imperfections
- disparagementCriticism meant to diminish
- belittlementVerbal diminishing of worth
- censureFormal institutional disapproval
condemnation · disapproval · objection · reproach · complaints · shortcomings · flaws · nitpicking · carping · quibbles
slander
Spoken false defamation
vilification · denigration · discredit · maligning · backbiting · mudslinging · character assassination · traducement · besmirchment · tarnishing
diversions
Entertainments or alternate routes
- interruptionsBreaks in continuity
- disturbancesInterruptions to normal order
- disruptionsInterruptions to normal activity
interference · sidetracking · deflections · tangents · red herrings · derailments · noise · detours · misdirection · obfuscation
detractionspraise
Expression of approval
commendations · accolades · praises · tributes · compliments
detractionsadditions
Things joined to existing wholes
enhancements · augmentations · supplements · contributions · accretions