Pronunciation: [dɪtɹˈakts] (IPA) 
The word "detracts" is spelled with a silent "c" which can be confusing for some individuals. In IPA phonetic transcription, "detracts" is pronounced as /dɪˈtræks/. The "c" represents the "ks" sound at the end of the word, making the "c" superfluous. This spelling may seem counterintuitive, but it is important to remember its correct usage in writing to avoid misspellings and to maintain clear communication.
Detracts is a verb that refers to the action of diminishing, taking away from, or reducing the value, quality, or importance of something or someone. It conveys the idea of undermining, weakening, or detracting attention or merit from an individual, object, or concept.
When something detracts from a specific element, it means that it has a negative impact on it, lessening its worth or significance. For example, when a distracting noise detracts from the performance of a musician, it hampers their ability to concentrate or deliver their best. Similarly, a scientific study may be criticized if any bias or flawed methodology detracts from the reliability or credibility of its findings.
Detracts can also imply the act of diminishing the reputation, image, or esteem of a person or entity. If false rumors or negative comments circulate about someone, it can detract from their professional credibility or public perception. The detrimental effects of such actions can range from reduced trust and respect to detrimental career consequences.
Furthermore, detracts can be related to diverting attention or focus away from a particular subject or issue. For instance, unnecessary inclusions in a report might detract from its main message or key findings, making it harder for readers to understand the central ideas.
Overall, detracts encompasses the concept of reducing value, significance, quality, or attention from something or someone, thereby highlighting its negative consequences on perception, reputation, effectiveness, or understanding.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word detracts is derived from the Latin verb detractare, which means to take away, remove, or draw off. The Latin term is a combination of the prefix de- (meaning away or off) and the verb trahere (meaning to pull or draw). Over time, the term detractare evolved in Old French to detracter, which later entered Middle English as detract. It ultimately developed into the modern English word detracts, which means to diminish the worth or value of something or to detract from.
