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Dictionary definition of detrimental

Causing harm, damage, or having a negative impact on a person, object, situation, or system.
"The detrimental consequences of the decision were felt by the community."

Detailed meaning of detrimental

When an aspect is characterized as 'detrimental,' it signifies that it is working against the best interests of that entity, often impeding its progress, well-being, or overall functionality. This term underscores the idea that the particular factor or influence is detrimental and poses a threat to the desired outcome or state. Whether it pertains to the detrimental effects of an unhealthy habit on an individual's health or the detrimental impact of policies on a community's welfare, 'detrimental' emphasizes the adverse consequences and the necessity to recognize and address them for improvement or mitigation.

Example sentences of detrimental

1. Smoking is detrimental to your health, increasing the risk of lung cancer and heart disease.
2. Constant exposure to loud noises can be detrimental to your hearing.
3. A poor diet can be detrimental to one’s physical and mental well-being.
4. Excessive use of social media can be detrimental to productivity and focus.
5. The construction of the dam was seen as detrimental to the local ecosystems.
6. The lack of physical activity is detrimental to the body's muscular and cardiovascular systems.

History and etymology of detrimental

The adjective 'detrimental' has its origins in Latin, stemming from the word 'detrimentum,' which means 'damage' or 'loss.' 'Detrimentum' is derived from the verb 'deterere,' meaning 'to wear away' or 'to erode.' The word 'deterere' is composed of 'de-' (indicating reversal or removal) and 'terere' (meaning 'to rub' or 'to wear'). Thus, 'detrimental' carries the etymological notion of causing harm, damage, or negative impact by eroding or wearing away the well-being or integrity of a person, object, situation, or system. Its etymology aptly reflects the idea of something being detrimental when it leads to harm or loss.

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Further usage examples of detrimental

1. Engaging in gossip at the workplace can be detrimental to professional relationships.
2. Harsh chemicals in cleaning products can be detrimental to indoor air quality.
3. Skipping sleep to study for exams can actually be detrimental to performance.
4. Deforestation is detrimental to biodiversity and disrupts the balance of ecosystems.
5. The overuse of antibiotics is detrimental in the long term, as it can lead to antibiotic resistance.
6. A high amount of stress is detrimental to both emotional and physical health.
7. Spending beyond your means is detrimental to financial stability and can lead to debt.
8. Neglecting vehicle maintenance can be detrimental to the car's performance and lifespan.
9. Procrastination is detrimental; it hinders progress and success in the long run.
10. Excessive stress is detrimental to mental and physical well-being.
11. Neglecting maintenance can have a detrimental impact on your car's performance.
12. Overloading electrical circuits is detrimental; it can lead to fires.
13. Harboring resentment is detrimental to personal happiness and relationships.
14. The overuse of pesticides is detrimental to soil and water quality.
15. Skipping regular check-ups can be detrimental to your health.
16. Inadequate sleep is detrimental; it impairs cognitive function.
17. Hoarding clutter is detrimental to a clean and organized home.
18. A lack of transparency is detrimental to trust in leadership.
19. Excessive sugar intake is detrimental to dental health.
20. Gossiping is detrimental to workplace morale and teamwork.
21. Ignoring feedback can be detrimental to personal growth.
22. Neglecting cybersecurity is detrimental to data security.
23. The detrimental effects of pollution on air quality are evident.
24. Holding onto grudges is detrimental to emotional well-being.
25. Overworking without breaks is detrimental to productivity.
26. Disregarding safety precautions can have detrimental consequences.
27. Favoritism in decision-making is detrimental to fairness.
28. Neglecting environmental conservation is detrimental to our planet's future.