1
as in harms
something that causes loss or pain
opponents of casino gambling claim that it is a detriment to society at large
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in disadvantages
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 detriments
The three largest carriers all offer basic economy fares, with various benefits and detriments.
—
Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 23 Dec. 2025
But other worries abound, a la O’Leary’s remarks about extras, to say nothing of broader cultural detriments like brain-draining our college students.
—Andy Crump, Time, 31 Oct. 2025
These candid and thoughtful conversations about potential scenarios and solutions allow partners to get on the same page and build healthy habits for the long run that can ultimately avoid the detriments of a divorce.
—Julia Rodgers, Fortune, 3 Oct. 2025
While many investors understand the risks associated with aggressive investing, few realize the long-term detriments that come with an overly conservative portfolio, especially when preparing for retirement.
—David Kudla, Forbes.com, 28 Aug. 2025
Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 23 Dec. 2025
But other worries abound, a la O’Leary’s remarks about extras, to say nothing of broader cultural detriments like brain-draining our college students.
—Andy Crump, Time, 31 Oct. 2025
These candid and thoughtful conversations about potential scenarios and solutions allow partners to get on the same page and build healthy habits for the long run that can ultimately avoid the detriments of a divorce.
—Julia Rodgers, Fortune, 3 Oct. 2025
While many investors understand the risks associated with aggressive investing, few realize the long-term detriments that come with an overly conservative portfolio, especially when preparing for retirement.
—David Kudla, Forbes.com, 28 Aug. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for detriments
Noun
-
OpenAI has also announced plans to hire a new Head of Preparedness, a role focused on identifying potential harms tied to its AI models and strengthening safeguards around issues ranging from mental health to cybersecurity as those systems grow more capable.—
Kurt Knutsson,
FOXNews.com,
5 Jan. 2026
-
The brief argues that the commission failed to consider significant, concrete harms to local industry and communities.—
Center Square,
The Washington Examiner,
5 Jan. 2026
Noun
-
The program performed extremely well across key demographics and platforms, despite industry and timing disadvantages, including a Tuesday air date two days before Christmas.—
Ted Johnson,
Deadline,
1 Jan. 2026
-
But lighting alone isn't enough to deter all criminals, and there are some disadvantages to leaving the lights blazing all night long.—
Brandee Gruener,
Southern Living,
20 Dec. 2025
Noun
-
In 2025, 23 weather and climate events exceeded $1 billion in damages, costing a total of around $115 billion, according to an analysis released Thursday by the nonprofit organization Climate Central.—
Denise Chow,
NBC news,
8 Jan. 2026
-
The United States experienced nearly two dozen billion-dollar weather and climate disasters in 2025, causing at least 276 fatalities and costing a total of $115 billion in damages.—
Matthew Glasser,
ABC News,
8 Jan. 2026
Noun
-
Liability coverage pays for injuries or property damage you, the driver, cause to others during an accident.—
Ethan M. Stone,
Miami Herald,
9 Jan. 2026
-
The agent, who suffered injuries to his arm and hand, fired his Taser at the man during the encounter, records show.—
Allison Gordon,
CNN Money,
9 Jan. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Detriments.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/detriments. Accessed 11 Jan. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share