as in distracts
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
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for detracts
Verb
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French’s focus on DEI efforts and Islam, some of his opponents said, distracts voters from the actual issues facing Texas’ oil and gas industry.—
Emily Holshouser,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
26 Feb. 2026 -
Choose roof shingles that complement your home's architecture and exterior color palette, treating the roof as a subtle backdrop that enhances rather than distracts.—
Cameron Beall,
Southern Living,
19 Feb. 2026
Verb
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Other recommendations included repealing any crime-free nuisance ordinances around housing, establishing an Office of Immigrant and Refugee Rights and creating a program that diverts young people away from the justice system.—
R. Christian Smith,
Chicago Tribune,
22 Feb. 2026
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Curtis wants to see a more holistic conversation on how to address delays in rural communities, rather than a proviso that diverts funding from projects long in the works.—
Sofi Zeman,
Kansas City Star,
15 Feb. 2026
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Cite this Entry
“Detracts.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/detracts. Accessed 3 Mar. 2026.
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