detest
She detests loud noises and always wears earplugs.
She strongly dislikes loud noises and wears earplugs to avoid them.
to feel intense dislike or hatred for someone or something
He detests dishonesty and always tells the truth.
He strongly dislikes dishonesty and always chooses to be truthful.
Many people detest the taste of bitter vegetables like Brussels sprouts.
Many people strongly dislike the taste of bitter vegetables like Brussels sprouts.
Often used to express a strong, negative emotional reaction.
Collocations
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Usage Context
Use 'detest' when you want to emphasize a strong, negative feeling. It is stronger than 'dislike' but less extreme than 'hate'.
Gold Rule
Intensity
'Detest' conveys a very strong negative emotion. Use it when the dislike is significant and long-lasting.
Word Origin
From Latin 'detestari', meaning 'to curse, to call as a witness against oneself'.
Usage Notes
Often used in formal and informal contexts to express strong dislike. Can be used with people, things, or abstract concepts.