Detractive (adj.): Characterized by detracting or tending to detract; disparaging; tending to diminish the value, importance, or reputation of someone or something. It implies a critical or negative assessment, often focusing on flaws or shortcomings. A detractive statement aims to belittle or discredit, either subtly or overtly. The word highlights the act of taking away from, rather than adding to, someone's or something's perceived positive attributes or accomplishments. It can apply to actions, words, or attitudes that undermine confidence or respect.
Detractive meaning with examples
- His detractive comments about her project at the meeting were uncalled for, undermining her confidence in her presentation. The detractive remarks shifted the focus from constructive feedback to personal attacks, and his behavior upset the team, making the project less successful. It created a negative and hostile environment and made cooperation difficult.
- The online review contained several detractive statements that misrepresented the company's services. The author focused on minor issues, ignoring the overwhelmingly positive experiences of other customers and failed to take into account all the hard work of the workers. The detractive elements of the review unfairly damaged the company's reputation and hurt their business.
- She perceived his silence as detractive, as if her contributions to the conversation were unworthy of his acknowledgement. His refusal to engage made her feel disregarded and undermined her enthusiasm to be part of the group, and created some problems with communication. She felt he was intentionally trying to make her feel bad.
- The journalist's article presented a detractive portrait of the candidate, highlighting only their perceived weaknesses. The piece downplayed their experience and achievements, focusing instead on their political mishaps. It aimed to influence voters by portraying them in a negative light, making their campaign difficult.
- His constant detractive comparisons of his children to each other damaged their self-esteem. His comments were meant to show who was better, however, they created unnecessary competition and jealousy. It created negative feelings and undermined their individual sense of worth, discouraging healthy sibling relationships.