Thesaurus

detain

Q: How is the word 'detain' distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of detain are delay , retard , slacken , and slow . While all these words mean "to cause to be late or behind in movement or progress," detain implies a holding back beyond a reasonable or appointed time. // unexpected business had detained her

Q: When is 'delay' a more appropriate choice than 'detain'?

While in some cases nearly identical to detain , delay implies a holding back, usually by interference, from completion or arrival. // bad weather delayed our arrival

Q: In what contexts can 'retard' take the place of 'detain'?

In some situations, the words retard and detain are roughly equivalent. However, retard suggests reduction of speed without actual stopping. // language barriers retarded their progress

Q: When might 'slacken' be a better fit than 'detain'?

Although the words slacken and detain have much in common, slacken suggests an easing up or relaxing of power or effort. // on hot days runners slacken their pace

Q: How do 'slow' and 'slacken' relate to one another, in the sense of 'detain'?

Both slow and slacken also imply a reduction of speed, slow often suggesting deliberate intention. // medication slowed the patient's heart rate

verb

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Synonyms & Antonyms of detain

1 to take or keep (someone) in confinement by authority of law

Police detained the suspect.

Synonyms & Near Synonyms for detain

apprehend,
arrest,
bust
[slang],
collar,
nab,
nail,
nick
[British slang],
pick up,
pinch,
pull in,
restrain,
run in,
seize

bar,
gate

rearrest

remand

Antonyms & Near Antonyms for detain

unbind,
unchain

discharge

2 to keep (someone or something) from proceeding or progressing

She sent word that she had been unavoidably detained.

The plane was detained for hours due to inclement weather.

Synonyms & Near Synonyms for detain

retard,
slow

hesitate,
pause

Antonyms & Near Antonyms for detain

Frequently Asked Questions About detain

How is the word detain distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of detain are delay, retard, slacken, and slow. While all these words mean "to cause to be late or behind in movement or progress," detain implies a holding back beyond a reasonable or appointed time.

unexpected business had detained her