detractors

Meaning

1. 1nounplural

   People who criticize someone or something, often in order to make them seem less important or less good.

   Grammar: Always plural in this form; the singular is detractor. Often used with of or a possessive: detractors of the plan, his detractors.

   Patterns

   • detractors of someone/something
   • someone's detractors
   • critics and detractors

   Despite her success, her detractors say she was just lucky.

   The mayor's detractors accused him of not listening to ordinary people.

   Even the plan's detractors admit that it has some good points.

Word forms

Common combinations

his detractors

His detractors claim he is too old for the job.

detractors of the plan

Detractors of the plan say it will cost too much.

critics and detractors

Critics and detractors have both questioned the new law.

silence one's detractors

She silenced her detractors with a brilliant performance.

Synonyms and how they differ

critics

Critics can be neutral or professional, while detractors often implies unfair or hostile criticism.

opponents

Opponents disagree with an idea or action, but detractors specifically try to make someone or something seem less valuable.

naysayers

Naysayers are people who always say no or predict failure; detractors actively criticize and try to reduce respect.

Opposites

Word family

detract verb

To make something seem less good or important; often used in 'detract from'.

detraction noun

The act of criticizing or taking away from someone's reputation.

Commonly confused: detractors or distractors?

Practice

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