Definition of detrimentnext
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as in disadvantage
the negative result caused by something that creates difficulty for achieving success the requirement that runners wear shoes for the race worked to his detriment since he was used to running barefoot

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of detriment If discriminatory practices are allowed for the benefit of minorities, they are also allowed to their detriment. Rafael Perez, Oc Register, 10 June 2026 Tornell noted the high temperatures as a detriment to the team’s play. Anya Armentrout, Twin Cities, 9 June 2026 Ahead, pollinator experts share the most common mistakes people make to the detriment of bees, butterflies, birds, and other pollinators. Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 8 June 2026 Jeff Thompson, who has served on the HPB for nearly two decades with appointments by three mayors, argued the board isn’t a detriment to development and hasn’t rejected a proposal in the district over the past five years. Ryan Gillespie, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for detriment
Recent Examples of Synonyms for detriment
Noun
  • And certain combinations of drugs may also increase the risk of harm.
    Dinah Voyles Pulver, USA Today, 3 July 2026
  • Using chemical-laden sprays and repellents isn't always a desirable way to deal with these insect pests, and the use of chemical pesticides can cause harm to wildlife and kill beneficial pollinators.
    The Spruce, The Spruce, 2 July 2026
Noun
  • Many professionals and students have moved abroad in search of opportunities, putting Venezuela at a dire disadvantage with its disaster response.
    Whitney Eulich, Christian Science Monitor, 26 June 2026
  • Every quarter a brand delays is a quarter of compounding disadvantage.
    Hernan Tagliani, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026
Noun
  • Interruption of blood flow to the brain, which causes brain damage, claimed 166,852 American lives in 2024, per NCHS.
    Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 3 July 2026
  • The filter plant beneath the pool flooded, resulting in damage to motors and other equipment.
    Hannah Kliger, CBS News, 2 July 2026
Noun
  • Everyone on the trip can collaborate to build the perfect itinerary, easily share flight details, create checklists, and keep track of expenses and who owes what.
    Cody Godwin, USA Today, 30 June 2026
  • MetLife is poised to lead the industry in margin expansion (20–25 bps annually) by keeping expense growth firmly below revenue gains.
    Michael Khouw, CNBC, 29 June 2026
Noun
  • In 2023, more than a decade after a experiencing season-ending racing injuries, Muniz decided to pursue his dream of NASCAR racing full-throttle and announced his return to stock car racing in the ARCA Menards Series.
    Brendan Morrow, USA Today, 2 July 2026
  • Pulisic looked rusty while getting his first start since the group stage opener when he was subbed out at halftime with a calf injury.
    Chris Biderman, Sacbee.com, 2 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Detriment.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/detriment. Accessed 4 Jul. 2026.

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