detain
The police detained the suspect for questioning.
The police kept the suspect in custody to ask them questions.
To officially hold someone in custody, typically by legal authority.
The suspect was detained without charge for 48 hours.
The police kept the suspect in custody for two days without formally accusing them.
Often implies temporary custody pending investigation or trial. Contrast with 'arrest,' which involves formal charges.
To delay or prevent someone from proceeding.
Bad weather detained the flight for several hours.
The flight was delayed due to poor weather conditions.
Less common than the legal sense; implies an obstacle causing a pause.
Collocations
Pro Tip
Legal vs. General Use
In law, 'detain' implies temporary custody (e.g., during an investigation). In general use, it can mean any delay (e.g., traffic detained us).
Gold Rule
Avoid Confusion with 'Arrest'
'Detain' does not always involve formal charges. 'Arrest' implies a criminal accusation. Example: 'Police detained the witness for safety' vs. 'Police arrested the suspect for theft.'
Word Origin
From Latin *detinēre* (to hold back, detain), from *de-* (down, away) + *tenēre* (to hold). Entered English in the 15th century via Old French *detenir*.
Usage Notes
Primarily used in legal or formal contexts. Avoid using in informal speech unless mimicking legal jargon.