detention - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
detention Word Meanings
- the act of being kept in a place, especially as a punishment
- a period of time when someone is held in custody
- the state of being detained or kept in a specific location
detention Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
detention Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dɪˈtɛnʃən/
US
/dɪˈtɛnʃən/
detention Word Etymology
de- = from, away + tenere = to hold. Originated from Latin, passed through Old French before becoming English. Imagine a student being held away from their friends after school as a form of discipline, stuck in a classroom with a clock ticking loudly, emphasizing their detainment.
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 push open the classroom door and step into the quiet hallway, adjusting my backpack strap as my footsteps slow. A single fluorescent light hums above a row of chairs, and I move from the door to a desk where the day seems to linger. I shift in my seat, fidget with the edge of my sleeve, and hold my breath a little as I listen for the teacher's steps returning. Sitting there, I sense a quiet rule taking hold around me, a place and time set apart from the lesson, and the feeling of being kept here grows into what we call detention in my mind.
Real Context
Detention is a word that, in everyday use, means being kept in a place as punishment or for a period of time. It can describe a school practice where a student stays after class as a consequence, or a legal situation where someone is held in custody or kept in a specific location for investigation or safety. The term emphasizes the state of being prevented from leaving, often alongside a routine or procedure. In many contexts, detention implies a temporary restriction rather than a long sentence, and it can vary by country in duration and rules. The core idea is control and confinement for a stated period.
Usage Reminders
- Detention is typically used with be kept in detention or serve detention, not普通 say 'in detention' in every context.
- Detention is usually temporary: it is not the same as imprisonment.
- Common school collocations: detention after school, detention hall, detention period.
- Remember the verb form: detain (to seize or hold) vs detention (the act/state).
- Rules and duration vary by country; check local school or legal guidance.
Common Misconceptions
- Detention and imprisonment are the same thing.
- Detention always lasts a long time.
- Detention is only a legal term, not used in schools.
- Detention centers and jails are interchangeable terms.
- Detention means you’ve been formally charged with a crime.
Thinking Differences
For English learners, detention is commonly a school discipline term or a brief legal hold, not a long prison sentence; some contexts use detain and detention differently.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations: detention after school, detention hall, detention period.
- Differentiate detention from detain (verb) and detention center (facility).
- Note that 'a detention' is less common in American English; use 'detention' or 'detention after school'.
- Watch regional differences in duration and procedures.
- Pair with verbs like 'be kept in detention' or 'serve detention'.
- Practice short, real-world examples to distinguish school discipline from legal custody.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'detention'?
A.Competition
B.Celebration
C.Punishment
D.Journey
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'detention' used correctly?
A.They had a detention party for the student.
B.He got a detention for helping others.
C.She received detention for her excellent grades.
D.The school cancelled all detentions for the year.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym for 'detention'?
A.Release
B.Liberty
C.Freedom
D.Imprisonment
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite meaning of 'detention'?
A.Award
B.Approval
C.Praise
D.Permission
Step 5: Mastery
In what situation would someone likely receive detention?
A.Helping a friend
B.Completing homework on time
C.Skipping classes without permission
D.Participating in extracurricular activities
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App