detract
UK: dɪˈtrækt | US: dɪˈtrækt
vt. to diminish the value, importance, or quality of something
vi. to divert or draw away (attention, focus, etc.)
The word "detract" originates from Latin detractare, a frequentative form of detrahere ("to pull down"). It combines de- (indicating reversal or removal) and trahere ("to pull"). The morpheme tract evolved into English as a root meaning "to pull" or "draw," seen in words like "traction" and "extract." Over time, "detract" shifted from literal pulling to metaphorical diminishing or diverting.
The minor errors did not detract from the overall excellence of the report.
His loud tie detracted attention from his speech.
She refused to let personal criticism detract her from her goals.
The outdated decor detracts from the restaurant’s modern menu.
Constant interruptions detract from productivity in the workplace.