Synonym Chooser

How does the verb abhor contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of abhor are abominate, detest, hate, and loathe. While all these words mean "to feel strong aversion or intense dislike for," abhor implies a deep often shuddering repugnance.

a crime abhorred by all

When can abominate be used instead of abhor?

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

abominates all forms of violence

When could detest be used to replace abhor?

The words detest and abhor are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, detest suggests violent antipathy.

detests cowards

In what contexts can hate take the place of abhor?

Although the words hate and abhor have much in common, hate implies an emotional aversion often coupled with enmity or malice.

hated the enemy with a passion

When would loathe be a good substitute for abhor?

The synonyms loathe and abhor are sometimes interchangeable, but loathe implies utter disgust and intolerance.

loathed the mere sight of them

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 abhor Many filmmakers and industry workers abhor the idea of using AI in the moviemaking process, and worry that it will be used as a pale replacement for human creativity. Andrew R. Chow, Time, 8 July 2025 The opportunity is not in making bold claims—an approach most women abhor. Carrie McCabe, Forbes.com, 26 June 2025 That reality, however, would likely spark strong pushback from hardline conservatives, who abhor continuing resolutions and want to codify more of the cuts made by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in the first months of the Trump administration. Mychael Schnell, The Hill, 23 June 2025 The international system, the product of independent states pursuing their own security, abhors an imbalance. Dp Opinion, Denver Post, 23 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for abhor
Recent Examples of Synonyms for abhor
Verb
  • Xiaoxuemeng Baggy Barrel Pants The pants have a curved seam that gives the legs that barrel or lantern-like shape that people currently love (or hate).
    Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 9 Sep. 2025
  • There were people who loved it, and people who absolutely hated it — most especially [former New York Observer critic] Rex Reed.
    Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 8 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Austen shows us how others might fear or despise her, then gives us the gift of the means and the courage to delight in her instead.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 4 Sep. 2025
  • Many people fear them, attack them, or despise them.
    Anna Tunkova, CNN Money, 15 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Abhor.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/abhor. Accessed 11 Sep. 2025.

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