# detriment

/ˈdɛtɹəmənt/ (US) · /dˈɛtɹɪmənt/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/detriment
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. harm or damage

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

harm, damage, or a loss that happens to something.

For teachers: the state of being harmed or damaged; a cause of loss or injury.

- He worked long hours to the detriment of his health.
- The company focused exclusively on short-term profits, ultimately to the detriment of its long-term research and development goals.

Usage: Commonly appears in the fixed phrase 'to the detriment of [something/someone]'.

### 2. astrology

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

a special position of a planet that is thought to make its influence weaker.

For teachers: the state of a planet when it is in the zodiac sign opposite the one it naturally rules, traditionally considered a weakening placement.

- In her birth chart, Venus is in detriment, which affects how she expresses affection.
- Traditional astrologers argue that a planet in detriment lacks the essential dignity required to manifest its positive traits effectively.

## Examples

- He worked too much to the detriment of his health.
- The company focused on short-term profits to the detriment of its long-term stability and reputation.
- The rapid expansion of the urban center proceeded to the detriment of the surrounding wetlands, which were eventually drained to make room for industrial parks.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.