Detrimental

Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

English: /ˌdɛtrɪˈmɛntl/

Definitions

• Causing harm or damage.
• Having a negative effect on someone or something.

Usage Examples

• Excessive sugar consumption is detrimental to health.
• The lack of proper funding had a detrimental impact on education.
• Air pollution is detrimental to both human health and the environment.

Etymology

Derived from Latin detrimentum (damage, loss), from dēterere (to wear away, rub off). The adjective form emerged in the 17th century.

Synonyms

• Harmful
• Damaging
• Injurious
• Destructive
• Adverse

Antonyms

• Beneficial
• Helpful
• Advantageous
• Constructive

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In British English, the second syllable is pronounced with a stronger emphasis, whereas in American English, it is more evenly stressed across the syllables.

Historical Usage

The term has been in use since the early 17th century and has been consistently used in legal, medical, and environmental contexts.

Cultural Nuances

In legal and business language, "detrimental" often refers to financial or contractual harm, while in everyday usage, it is commonly associated with health and well-being.

More Information

Detrimental effects are often discussed in various fields, including environmental science, medicine, and social policy. The term is frequently used in debates concerning the impact of industrialization, digital consumption, and public health initiatives.