"detracts" vs "detracts from"

Question

"detracts" vs "detracts from"

Both 'detracts from' and 'detracts' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Detracts from' is used when something diminishes the value or quality of something else, while 'detracts' is used when something takes away from the positive aspects of something. They are not interchangeable as 'detracts from' requires an object after it.

Last Updated: March 20, 2024

It is used when something takes away from the positive aspects of something. It does not require an object after it.

Examples:

His constant complaining detracts from his likeability.
The excessive use of special effects detracts from the realism of the movie.
The lack of proper lighting detracts from the overall ambiance of the room.

Alternatives:

takes away from
diminishes
lessens the impact of

It is used when something diminishes the value or quality of something else. It requires an object after it.

Examples:

The graffiti detracts from the beauty of the building.
His behavior detracts from the team's success.
The noise detracts from the peaceful atmosphere of the park.

Alternatives:

diminishes the value of
reduces the quality of
takes away from

Answer 1

detracts

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

detracts from

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"detracts" vs "detracts from"

detracts

detracts from

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