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 But love him or loathe him, Trump is not the only problem. Antoine Rostand, Time, 21 Apr. 2025 Much to his dismay, though, the Elimination Challenge is to create a tasting menu based on pickles — a food Tristen apparently loathes. Caroline Framke, Vulture, 18 Apr. 2025 Probably because most people fear and loathe them, often killing the messenger. Stephen S. Hall, Time, 21 Apr. 2025 Some people swear by sleeping with a top sheet, while others absolutely loathe them. Betsy Cribb Watson, Southern Living, 5 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for loathe
Recent Examples of Synonyms for loathe
hate
Verb
  • Aside: Her daughters, when young, hated when the former Vogue fashion editor reached for leggings.
    Jackie Fields, People.com, 12 May 2025
  • While Monty loves to run around in the rain, Sam hates getting wet, avoiding the water at all costs.
    Alice Gibbs, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Loathe.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/loathe. Accessed 25 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on loathe

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