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Bill W

Posted

The word "detrimental" ultimately derives form the Latin word "detrimentum," meaning "loss" or "damage."  This Latin word comes from "deterere," which means "to wear away" or "to rub off". The "detr- " part of the word is related to the idea of wearing something down or away, while the "-mentum" suffix indicates a state or result. Therefore, "detrimental" essentially means causing damage or harm, reflecting the original concept of wearing something away or diminishing its value.  The word entered French as "detriment," and finally it entered English as "detriment" and later as the adjective "detrimental." 

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the word "detrimental" was first used in English in the mid-1600s.  Specifically, the OED's earliest evidence for "detriment" is from 1623, in the writing of William Sclater, Church of England clergyman.  It is also recorded as a noun from the Middle English period (1150-1500).  The earliest known use of the word "detrimental" in English in the mid-1600s, specifically, in 1656 in the writings of Thomas Blount. The word is formed within English, derived from the noun "detriment" and the suffix "-al". 

Examples of "detrimental" used in a sentence: 
"It will have detrimental effects on the healing process."
"As it turned out, nothing he had kept secret was actually detrimental to their relationship."
"The new law will have detrimental influences on future tobacco use."
"It was an example of the detrimental effect that passive smoking can have on anyone's health." 
"
The detrimental effects of such solitude on health are well documented." 
"t's also had a significant and detrimental impact on the regional economy." 
"That would be hugely detrimental to football."
"Any suggestion of negative or detrimental treatment may lead to a valid claim for whistleblowing, where compensation is not capped and financial awards can be high." 

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drpaladin

Posted

Why must the detrimental be so alluring?

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