Detriment

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

English: /ˈdɛtrɪmənt/

Definitions

• A cause of harm, damage, or loss.
• The state of being harmed or damaged.

Usage Examples

• Excessive screen time can be a detriment to one’s eyesight.
• Skipping meals regularly is to the detriment of your health.
• The policy changes were implemented to the detriment of small businesses.

Etymology

Derived from Latin detrimentum (damage, loss), from detrīmentum, which comes from dēterere (to wear away, rub off).

Synonyms

• Harm
• Damage
• Injury
• Loss
• Impairment

Antonyms

• Benefit
• Advantage
• Profit
• Gain

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In British English, the pronunciation emphasizes the first syllable with a clear ‘t’ sound, while in American English, the pronunciation is softer with a slightly reduced second syllable.

Historical Usage

The word "detriment" has been in use since the 15th century, often found in legal and philosophical texts referring to harm caused to individuals or groups.

Cultural Nuances

In legal contexts, "detriment" is often used to refer to financial or reputational loss, whereas in casual speech, it can imply any form of disadvantage or harm.

More Information

The concept of detriment is significant in ethics and law, where it is used to determine harm caused by actions or policies. Understanding detriment is crucial in evaluating fairness, justice, and equity in social and legal frameworks.