Detriment/ˈdetrɪmənt/ Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Negative Outcomes Use 'detriment' to stress the negative results of an action or situation, often long-term. Ignoring the problem will only operate to your detriment. Pro Tip 2/3Cause of Harm 'Detriment' often refers to the root cause of damage rather than the damage itself. His relentless work schedule was a detriment to his social life. Pro Tip 3/3Abstract Concepts Detriment can apply to abstract things like relationships, not just physical harm. Lies can be a detriment to trust between friends.