as in to divert
to draw the attention or mind to something else
numerous typos in the text detract the reader's attention from the novel's intricate plot
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Recent Examples of detract
The good news is that these issues are easily corrected in post-processing and do not detract much from the overall experience.
—
Tantse Walter, Space.com, 18 Feb. 2026
To center Jack instead, however, might have detracted too much from his role as an object of warped desire within the house.
—David Opie, IndieWire, 15 Feb. 2026
Even the prospect of another low-scoring Niners-Seahawks slugfest shouldn’t detract greatly from that NFC West rivalry, while the Rams-Bears capper has the potential to set the ratings dials on fire.
—Anthony Crupi, Sportico.com, 16 Jan. 2026
Some asserted that the commitment and costs of traveling and attending meetings paired with the limited compensation was detracting members of the public from running for office.
—Luis Melecio-Zambrano, Mercury News, 19 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for detract
Tantse Walter, Space.com, 18 Feb. 2026
To center Jack instead, however, might have detracted too much from his role as an object of warped desire within the house.
—David Opie, IndieWire, 15 Feb. 2026
Even the prospect of another low-scoring Niners-Seahawks slugfest shouldn’t detract greatly from that NFC West rivalry, while the Rams-Bears capper has the potential to set the ratings dials on fire.
—Anthony Crupi, Sportico.com, 16 Jan. 2026
Some asserted that the commitment and costs of traveling and attending meetings paired with the limited compensation was detracting members of the public from running for office.
—Luis Melecio-Zambrano, Mercury News, 19 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for detract
Recent Examples of Synonyms for detract
Verb
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Murdaugh is arrested on felony charges, accused of diverting millions of dollars away from the estate of Satterfield, the housekeeper.—
Bill Chappell,
NPR,
13 May 2026
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Yet the state is facing its own tight budget, and legislators are unlikely to divert a substantial amount of additional cash.—
Kate Armanini,
Chicago Tribune,
13 May 2026
Verb
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The process of transplanting a tree into your garden can throw off the flower production process for a year or two.—
Heather Bien,
Southern Living,
13 May 2026
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Olive Greens Olive greens can be earthy and soothing, but the wrong shade can throw off your home’s exterior.—
Asia London Palomba,
The Spruce,
12 May 2026
Cite this Entry
“Detract.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/detract. Accessed 16 May. 2026.
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