english
1
general::
Phrase(s): take away from someone or something to lessen the value or esteem of someone or something; to detract from someone or something. • The fact that she is quiet does not take away from her one bit. • The huge orange spot in the center of the painting takes away from the intense green of the rest of the work.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
2
general::
Detract, as in Her straggly hair takes away from her otherwise attractive appearance. [Second half of 1800s]
American Heritage Idioms