detain - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
detain Word Meanings
- to hold someone in custody
- to keep something from happening
- to delay or hinder someone
detain Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
detain Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dɪˈteɪn/
US
/dɪˈteɪn/
detain Word Etymology
de- = reverse, tain = hold; Latin → Old French → English; Imagine a person holding back someone as they try to move forward, symbolizing restriction.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I step up to the gate, place a hand on the bar, and move to block the path. The crowd slows, and I keep my stance, letting the moment stretch as the checks unfold. A quiet pressure settles in my chest as I hold steady, delaying what would otherwise move forward. Detain becomes a small, careful pause I choose to maintain until the situation is safe to release.
Real Context
Detain is a formal verb meaning to hold someone in custody, usually by police or other authorities, or to prevent something from proceeding. It can also mean delaying someone or something temporarily, such as a late announcement that detains a process or a roadblock that detains traffic. The nuance is that detention implies a controlled, temporary restriction with an expectation of release, action, or decision later, rather than a permanent hold. In everyday English, detain is more likely to appear in legal or official contexts, whereas common verbs like hold up, delay, or stop are more common in casual speech. Learners should watch for collocations like detain a suspect, detain passengers, or detain the shipment.
Usage Reminders
- Detain is formal and used with people or items under authority.
- Not for everyday delays; use delay or hold up instead.
- Common collocations: detain a suspect, detain passengers, detain a shipment.
- Passive form is common: He was detained by police.
- Avoid detain when you mean merely to stop or slow down a normal event.
Common Misconceptions
- Detain means arrest; detention is the same as imprisonment.
- Detain only applies to people, not objects or shipments.
- Detain can be used for everyday delays in casual speech.
- Detain and delay are interchangeable in all contexts.
- Detain means to hold someone permanently.
Thinking Differences
Detain in English carries a clear legal or official nuance, often tied to authorities and procedures; learners may overgeneralize to casual delays and swap with delay or stop.
Learning Tips
- Remember detain is used with authorities and formal contexts.
- Differentiate detain from delay, hold up, and stop by context and collocations.
- Use passive voice: He was detained by police.
- Note collocations: detain a suspect, detain passengers, detain a shipment.
- Practice legal or news-style sentences to build accuracy.
- Avoid using detain for everyday lateness.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'detain'?
A.Study
B.Release
C.Play
D.Arrest
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'detain' correctly?
A.She happily ran to school every day.
B.He detained the suspect for further questioning.
C.They played in the park for hours.
D.I carefully compared the prices before buying.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'detain'?
A.Capture
B.Free
C.Allow
D.Escape
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an antonym of 'detain'?
A.Secure
B.Confine
C.Hold
D.Release
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation would someone be detained?
A.Ordering a meal at a restaurant
B.Waiting for a friend at the park
C.Shopping at a grocery store
D.Being held by the police for questioning
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