as in distracting
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 detracting
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
Luis Melecio-Zambrano, Mercury News, 19 Sep. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for detracting
Verb
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Still, critics say the controversy risks distracting from preparations for the Games and eroding public confidence in the organizing committee.—
Teresa Liu,
Daily News,
18 Feb. 2026
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Picture frame backsplashes are outdated and visually distracting, tied to early 2000s.—
Sarah Lyon,
The Spruce,
17 Feb. 2026
Verb
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Crocodile documents growing pains within the collective, particularly as Godwin becomes interested in pursuing a music career, diverting his attention from filmmaking (he has been signed to Sony Music).—
Matthew Carey,
Deadline,
14 Feb. 2026
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After diverting to Brussels, authorities removed the two passengers from the aircraft.—
Sophia Compton,
FOXNews.com,
14 Feb. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Detracting.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/detracting. Accessed 21 Feb. 2026.
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