loathe

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb loathe contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of loathe are abhor, abominate, detest, and hate. While all these words mean "to feel strong aversion or intense dislike for," loathe implies utter disgust and intolerance.

loathed the mere sight of them

Where would abhor be a reasonable alternative to loathe?

While in some cases nearly identical to loathe, abhor implies a deep often shuddering repugnance.

a crime abhorred by all

In what contexts can abominate take the place of loathe?

In some situations, the words abominate and loathe are roughly equivalent. However, abominate suggests strong detestation and often moral condemnation.

abominates all forms of violence

When is it sensible to use detest instead of loathe?

The words detest and loathe can be used in similar contexts, but detest suggests violent antipathy.

detests cowards

When is hate a more appropriate choice than loathe?

The meanings of hate and loathe largely overlap; however, hate implies an emotional aversion often coupled with enmity or malice.

hated the enemy with a passion

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of loathe The election of Donald Trump sparked a lot of anger among those who’ve loathed the man since 2016 and longed for continued reign in the White House. Boston Herald Editorial Staff, Boston Herald, 15 June 2025 That’s how a Democratic primary turns into a contest between a disgraced Dem who loathes the left and a near neophyte leftist using the party as his vessel. Harry Siegel, New York Daily News, 14 June 2025 Love him or loathe him, Ronaldo has a magnetic attraction to silverware and nothing gives him greater satisfaction than celebrating success with his country. Stuart James, New York Times, 9 June 2025 Many of China's most successful entrepreneurs, engineers, and academics—especially those living and working in the United States—loathe the Chinese Communist Party. Kate Plummer, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for loathe
Recent Examples of Synonyms for loathe
hate
Verb
  • Bullies hate that because kindness takes their power away.
    Rob Salkowitz, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025
  • The premise is that America is caught in a bind between a political left that’s too afraid of growth and a political right that hates government investment and involvement.
    Scott Peters, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Loathe.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/loathe. Accessed 15 Jul. 2025.

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