detract
/dɪˈtɹækt/
Group 33Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (verb)
- To reduce or take away the worth or value of something GRE
Example in Context
The noisy construction next door detracted from the otherwise tranquil atmosphere that had made the retreat center so popular with guests.
Synonyms
take awaydiminishlessen
Etymology
To pull away or reduce the value of something.
- de- (Latin) — away
- tractus (Latin) — to pull
Memory Aid
🚂Sounds like “de track”
A train DE-TRACKS itself, pulling away from the station and leaving everyone’s hopes behind!
Visual Association
🚫A beautiful painting with a giant red 'X' over it, showing how value has been taken away.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “detract” mean on the GRE?
detract (verb) means “To reduce or take away the worth or value of something”. The noisy construction next door detracted from the otherwise tranquil atmosphere that had made the retreat center so popular with guests.
How to remember “detract” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “detract” sounds like “de track”. A train DE-TRACKS itself, pulling away from the station and leaving everyone’s hopes behind!
What are synonyms for “detract”?
Common synonyms: take away, diminish, lessen.